A new platform claiming stronger privacy and zero message scanning is now entering the messaging space. Elon Musk has rolled out XChat as part of his plan to turn X into an all-in-one super app.
The feature expands beyond basic messaging into calls, file sharing, and secure communication. It also places X in direct competition with platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.
XChat introduces end-to-end encryption, which ensures only the sender and receiver can read messages. The platform supports voice and video calls, disappearing messages, and message recall.
It also blocks screenshots in certain chats and allows users to sign up without a phone number. These features focus on limiting data exposure during communication.
The system runs on the Rust programming language, which is widely used for performance and security. Musk described the encryption approach as similar to peer-to-peer systems to reduce vulnerabilities.
He also highlighted the absence of advertising hooks, meaning the platform does not scan messages for targeting. This removes a common method used by apps to analyze user data.
“Most messaging apps have hooks built in for advertising… if the app can analyze your messages, it knows too much about you,” Elon Musk, on how message analysis can expose user data.
XChat connects directly to X’s network of over 500 million monthly users. This integration allows users to move from public posts to private conversations within the same platform.
The messaging system is expected to support future features, including payments through X Money. This direction aligns with Musk’s plan to combine communication and services in one platform.
The rollout begins on iOS, with Android expected to follow. Adoption will depend on how users respond to the platform’s features and integration within X.
