Elon Musk Unveils Enhanced XChat Messaging System with Encryption and Multimedia Features
Introduction of XChat to X Premium Subscribers
Elon Musk has confirmed the launch of a revamped messaging system called XChat, currently available to select X Premium subscribers and set to roll out to all paying users soon. This new direct messaging platform is built on a completely new back-end architecture aimed at improving reliability and user experience.
Key Features of the New XChat
- Full encryption by default to enhance user privacy
- Vanishing messages for ephemeral communication
- Ability to send file attachments within conversations
- Support for audio and video calls without requiring phone numbers
Technical Foundation and Security Approach
The updated messaging system is reportedly built using Rust and incorporates a form of encryption inspired by Bitcoin’s technological framework. While Bitcoin transactions are publicly visible on the blockchain, XChat aims to leverage similar cryptographic principles to provide a more secure messaging environment for its users.
Potential Role in X Payments and the “Everything App” Vision
XChat’s new architecture is designed to support future integrations with X Payments, Elon Musk’s vision for transforming X into an all-encompassing platform where users can transfer money, make purchases, and manage finances directly through their X accounts. This aligns with Musk’s broader goal of creating a comprehensive “everything app” similar to China’s WeChat.
Challenges and Outlook
Despite ambitions, the success of XChat and X Payments faces challenges, including limited user growth and the difficulty of replicating the multifunctional platform model popular in China within Western markets. Musk acknowledges potential “scaling issues” but plans to expand XChat availability to all Premium users this week.
Source: Social Media Today – Latest News by Andrew Hutchinson. Read original.
