Elon Musk has introduced XChat, a new encrypted messaging feature on X, aimed at challenging WhatsApp and Telegram.
Elon Musk has rolled out XChat, a new encrypted messaging feature on the X platform, positioning it as a direct competitor to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.
The update introduces end-to-end encryption, vanishing messages, universal file sharing, and audio/video calling, all integrated into the existing app. Musk revealed that XChat was “rebuilt from scratch” using the Rust programming language and features what he called “Bitcoin-style encryption.”
“All new XChat is rolling out with encryption, vanishing messages and the ability to send any kind of file. Also, audio/video calling. This is built on Rust with (Bitcoin style) encryption, whole new architecture,” Musk posted.
However, security experts remain skeptical. Ian Miers, a computer science professor, noted, “Bitcoin primarily uses signatures, not encryption… ‘Bitcoin style’ and ‘Rust’ are not encryption schemes.”
Currently, XChat is available only to a limited group—mostly premium users—with broader access expected in coming weeks.
The feature aligns with Musk’s broader ambition to transform X into a multipurpose “everything app,” echoing China’s WeChat.