- XChats will offer advanced features such as audio/video calls, encrypted and vanishing messages, and file sharing.
- Musk claims XChats uses the Rust programming language and a new technical framework aimed at improving security.
- Industry experts have raised questions about what “Bitcoin-style encryption” means, as Bitcoin uses cryptography but not conventional encryption for transactions.
- X is also preparing a payments feature called X Money, to launch in a limited beta later this year.
X is launching XChats, a new messaging service, according to owner Elon Musk. Musk stated on June 1 that XChats will add features like “Bitcoin-style encryption,” audio and video calls, disappearing messages, and file transfers to the platform.
In a post on X, Musk said XChats is built with the Rust programming language, introducing what he called a new architecture with enhanced security. The release comes after X paused its encrypted messaging function on May 29 while making improvements, possibly in preparation for XChats.
Reactions to Musk’s announcement appeared quickly. JAN3 CEO Samson Mow responded that “Bitcoin isn’t encrypted.” Crypto influencer “Pledditor” noted that Bitcoin instead “uses elliptic curve cryptography,” a mathematical system allowing secure ownership proof and transaction authorization. Bitcoin core developer Luke Dashjr commented, “Bitcoin doesn’t even use encryption,” and questioned using Rust for security reasons. Bitmex Research speculated Musk may have referred to “BIP-151,” an encryption proposal for Bitcoin peer-to-peer data.
Bitcoin secures transactions with elliptic curve cryptography, which uses a public and private key pair. Only the holder of the private key can authorize activity, while the public key can be shared to receive funds. Bitcoin also relies on SHA-256 hashing to validate transactions and create unique identifiers.
TechCrunch reported that XChats is initially available to paid subscribers and uses a four-digit passcode for protection.
On May 25, Musk confirmed X is testing a payments service called X Money. According to Musk, the feature will start with a “very limited access beta” and will prioritize user security due to the financial risks involved.
Elon Musk, who acquired X (formerly Twitter) in October 2022, has stated that he plans to make the platform an “everything app,” similar to WeChat, with messaging and financial services. With XChats and X Money, X aims to compete with encrypted messaging applications such as Telegram and Signal, and with financial apps like Venmo and Cash App.
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