Elon Musk unveils XChat, a new messaging and calling platform with encryption and privacy features designed to rival WhatsApp and Signal. The rollout begins this week for users of X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Musk made the announcement Monday on X, confirming the launch is moving forward unless technical issues delay the release. XChat is set to upgrade X’s direct messaging system significantly.
The new feature will include end-to-end encryption, vanishing messages, file sharing, and phone-free audio or video calls. According to reports, some premium X users already have early access.
Musk said XChat will use a “Bitcoin style” encryption system. While this sparked confusion—since Bitcoin uses cryptographic signatures, not encryption—it highlights Musk’s goal of creating a more secure and private user experience.
He has long criticized WhatsApp’s privacy policies and frequently praised Signal for its encrypted structure. Musk aims to bring the same level of trust to X’s messaging.
XChat is part of a broader plan to turn X into an “everything app.” Musk first mentioned this idea when he acquired the platform in 2022.
His vision includes combining social media, messaging, payments, and AI tools into a single platform. Earlier this year, Musk revealed a deal with Visa, enabling users to send and receive money within X—similar to services like Venmo and Zelle.
The app also features Grok, an AI chatbot designed to help users search, chat, and interact with content intelligently.
By launching XChat, Musk takes another step toward building a platform that merges communication, finance, and artificial intelligence.
XChat directly challenges popular apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. With features like secure calls, vanishing messages, and unrestricted file types, it may appeal to users looking for more control and privacy.
Musk continues to lead several high-profile ventures and is using his resources to reshape digital communication. His push to unify key functions under one brand could set a new standard in app development.
As XChat begins to roll out, all eyes will be on its performance and adoption. Whether it succeeds in disrupting the messaging space remains to be seen, but it’s clear that Musk’s ambition for X goes far beyond tweets.
