X (formerly Twitter) has officially launched its new messaging service called “Chat”, which is designed to offer encrypted messaging similar to popular platforms like Signal and WhatsApp. The new service includes a range of features aimed at enhancing user experience, including end-to-end encryption, file sharing, vanishing messages, and more. The company has promised to provide a more secure and privacy-focused alternative to traditional messaging apps.
The new Chat feature allows users to send and receive not just text messages, but also voice and video calls, as well as share files and media. Additionally, users can now edit or delete previously sent messages, offering greater flexibility and control over their conversations.
In a bid to improve security, X has incorporated end-to-end encryption in the platform, ensuring that only the sender and receiver can read the messages. The platform has also enhanced its notifications system to alert users about important activities. Currently, the feature is available on iOS and the web, with plans for an Android version to be rolled out soon. A voice memo feature, allowing users to send short audio messages, is also in the pipeline.
Earlier this year, X had teased the launch of encrypted messaging but had to pause the rollout in May due to technical issues. This new version appears to address many of those early setbacks. Now, group messages and media files can also be encrypted, although some metadata, such as information about who a message is sent to, remains unencrypted.
Despite the improvements, X has warned that users are still at risk from “man-in-the-middle” attacks, which could compromise the security of encrypted chats. If an internal employee or a legally authorized party accesses a chat, users will not be notified. In response, the company is working on new tools that will allow users to verify the authenticity of their encrypted messages, further bolstering privacy.
The latest update from X brings its chat platform closer to the capabilities of leading messaging apps, offering a host of modern features and greater privacy for users. However, the company is still addressing certain security concerns to ensure full protection in the future.
With this update, X is setting its sights on becoming a serious competitor in the crowded messaging app market, aiming to deliver a secure and feature-rich alternative for users seeking more control over their digital conversations.