Formerly known as Twitter, X has begun implementing its new encrypted messaging service, “Chat” or “XChat.” According to the firm, the new communication function is end-to-end encrypted, which means that, in principle, no one else, including X, can access communications sent and received on it.
However, cryptography experts caution that XChat’s present encryption mechanism is unreliable. They claim that it is significantly worse than Signal, which is generally regarded as the cutting edge of end-to-end encrypted communication technology.
Important Takeaways
- Elon Musk’s ambitious approach to messaging, XChat, combines social features, AI, and direct messages into a single app.
- While some users praise the design and integration, others point out flaws and missing fundamentals, and core functionality is still being developed.
- Because end-to-end encryption lacks clarity, it is a less desirable option for users who value their privacy.
- The attractive yet unpolished user interface is more appropriate for inquisitive early adopters than for regular users who require reliability.
- For creators and sophisticated users in particular, XChat’s connection with the X ecosystem is its greatest asset.
- Musk’s broader “everything app” goal is reflected in the app, which could gain more significance as it develops.
XChat: What is it?
Elon Musk’s attempt to incorporate private chat into his idea of the “everything app” is XChat. It’s not a stand-alone software that you download from the store; rather, it’s embedded into the X platform (previously Twitter), subtly replacing your old direct messages and aiming directly at well-known messaging behemoths like WeChat, WhatsApp, and Signal.
On the surface, it performs as one might anticipate. individual messages, conversations in groups. sharing of media. and a more modern user interface than the outdated Twitter direct messages we are accustomed to. XChat is the first tangible component of Musk’s aim to transform X into a one-stop digital command center, but beyond that lies a much larger goal.
How to get on XChat
You don’t currently need to install any additional software because it’s all included in the X app. You may have already seen it if you’re in the United States, South Africa, India, or portions of Europe. However, in order to use all of XChat’s capabilities at this time, you will need to be a paid X Premium user. Whether this will finally be free is uncertain.
Overview of XChat’s Features
Musk aims to create the connecting thread of his ideal “everything app” with XChat, which is not a reimagining of Twitter direct messages. There are already some pieces available. Others have the feel of placeholders awaiting programming. However, the goal is lofty.
Allow me to explain what is currently online, what is still in the works, and where it could all go.
Essential Aspects of Messaging
The fundamentals of XChat are as follows:
- individual conversations.
- Talks in groups.
- sharing of media (pictures, movies, GIFs, and links).
- Emoji responses.
Its look is crisper and more in keeping with contemporary messaging apps, and it feels quicker and snappier than the previous X DMs. It’s a definite improvement, but it’s not inventing the wheel.
Other essential characteristics consist of:
Disappearing Messages
Vanishing messages were popularized by Snapchat. Since then, the capability has been included into other platforms, such as WhatsApp and Telegram. Disappearing communications are on the horizon, according to Musk. I think you will be able to set a timer before messages self-destruct, but the specific settings, such as message lifespan or whether it notifies of screenshots, are still unknown.
Mark Messages as Unread
The option to flag messages as unread in XChat is one of our favorite small surprises. When someone sends you a “quick question” at midnight and you don’t want to open it just yet but don’t want to forget it exists, this feature which we realize isn’t particularly fancy is helpful. This should be included in more apps.
Delete all of the Chat’s Messages
It’s true that you can remove messages for everyone, not just yourself. Testers saw this in the wild, even though it wasn’t included in the first statement. Consider it similar to WhatsApp’s or iMessage’s “undo send” feature. Although the functionality is available and functional, we are unsure if there is a time limit at this time (iMessage offers you two minutes, whereas WhatsApp gives you roughly two days).
Video and Audio Calls
Since late 2023, X has offered audio and video calls. However, the integration now feels more seamless. Verified users can accept calls without having to follow you back, and you can join a call straight from a chat thread. It’s practical, not revolutionary, but helpful.
End-to-end encryption (E2EE)
Things become hazy at this point. Although Musk promised E2EE for XChat, it is now limited to Premium members and only available in specific discussions.
Modern messaging apps must have end-to-end encrypted (E2EE) messaging. The concept is straightforward: only you and the recipient can view your communications, not even the platform. Malicious hackers will only see a pile of useless code if they manage to intercept encrypted talks. This has been a feature of apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Signal for years.
X integration that is smooth
At this point, XChat begins to seem unique. Due to its integration with the larger X ecosystem, you can:
- If verified users have enabled messaging, strike up a conversation.
- Posts (Tweets?) can be shared directly into chat rooms.
- Make the switch from a public to a private group chat.
- Start using tipping tools to get money from chats. For creators, this is particularly intriguing because it lays the foundation for monetized suggestions and messaging.
Tools for monetization
Although it isn’t a complete storefront yet, XChat is testing:
- Alternatives for tipping within conversations.
- DMs from creators to fans, sometimes with paywalls.
- Possible integrations with cryptocurrency wallets, most likely connected to X Payments.
- Invitations to events or releases of premium material.
Most of this is experimental at the moment. However, if XChat is successful, it may develop into a platform where authors may get money from interactions rather than just views.
Should you use XChat?
You have a choice. Furthermore, I don’t think XChat is for everyone after using it long enough to realize what works and what is still wishful thinking. However, for the appropriate audience, it offers an intriguing sneak peek at the potential future of messaging.
XChat is excellent for:
- X power users who are already active on the platform and desire verified messaging, smooth direct messages, and potential revenue-generating benefits.
- early adopters of technology who like experimenting with new tools, particularly if there’s a possibility they could develop into something larger.
- supporters of Elon Musk’s business model. This fits in perfectly whether you’re already utilizing Tesla, Starlink, or are exploring the world of X.
- Communities seeking to avoid popular platforms, particularly those who appreciate live chat mixed with social feeds and a crypto-friendly atmosphere.
Who should skip or wait?
- Users who prioritize their privacy. Signal or Telegram are safer options if you don’t completely trust how data is handled or if end-to-end encryption isn’t assured.
- Regular users who only desire a dependable, uncomplicated, and clean messaging program.
- Compared to more developed platforms, XChat is still lacking in polish and has a few glitches.
- Professional or enterprise teams. The structure, integrations, and dependability of Slack, Teams, or Discord are now absent from XChat.
Conclusion
An important advancement for user security and privacy is the launch of end-to-end encrypted conversations on X. In addition to satisfying a rising demand, the platform is putting itself in a position to compete more effectively with rival messaging services by offering this option.
In the end, this action is indicative of a larger trend in the industry toward giving user data privacy first priority. Although it doesn’t address every privacy issue on the platform, it provides users with an effective tool for private, secure communication. With this breakthrough, X enters a new phase where its value proposition increasingly revolves around user trust and data security.
FAQ
Does X use end-to-end encryption?
X is now offering me end-to-end encrypted chat you probably shouldn’t trust it yet.
Does end-to-end encryption mean you’re blocked?
This is because with end-to-end encryption, your messages are secured with a lock, and only the recipient and you have the special key needed to unlock and read them.
Is XChat safe?
XChat claims to offer end-to-end encryption, but only for paid users, and even then, details are murky.
Does end-to-end encryption happen automatically?
RCS chats between Google Messages users are automatically upgraded to end-to-end encryption.
How do you remove someone from end-to-end encryption?
Remove a device from your end-to-end encrypted chat
- Open your Messenger mobile app.
- Tap Menu, then tap Settings.
- In the menu, tap Privacy & safety.
- Tap end-to-end encrypted chats.
- Tap Security alerts.
- Tap View logins.
- Tap on the name of the device you want to remove.
- Tap Log out.
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