SAN FRANCISCO: Elon Musk has unveiled XChat, a bold new messaging feature within the X platform (formerly Twitter), aiming to challenge WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger. The feature, now available in beta for mobile users, introduces a new era of instant messaging that blends privacy, multimedia capabilities, and seamless social integration.

XChat supports a full suite of communication tools: users can send vanishing messages, voice notes, files of any format, and even make audio and video calls without sharing a phone number. Premium users gain early access to additional features, but most core functions are available to all.

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Unlike traditional DMs, XChat is engineered for more advanced interactions. Messages can be unsent, chats are protected by PINs, and there’s an emphasis on multi-modal communication. It’s designed to feel like a modern super app—merging social posting, messaging, and brand engagement in one sleek interface.

Security-wise, Musk has claimed that XChat is built on Rust and uses “Bitcoin-style encryption.” However, cybersecurity experts caution that this does not confirm the use of end-to-end encryption, the gold standard seen in WhatsApp or Signal. As such, privacy guarantees remain unclear until further details are released.

The feature draws clear inspiration from China’s WeChat, positioning X as a potential all-in-one platform. From chatting with friends to interacting with businesses, XChat could reshape how users engage on social media.

Currently rolling out to X Premium users, a wider release is expected soon. With its blend of encrypted-like messaging and social media convenience, XChat is Musk’s latest step in transforming X into the world’s first true everything app.