Elon Musk Launches XChat to Challenge WhatsApp and Telegram in the Global Messaging War

Elon Musk has officially launched XChat, a groundbreaking messaging feature embedded within X (formerly Twitter), marking a major leap in his vision to turn the platform into a full-fledged “everything app.”

Currently in beta testing for paid subscribers, XChat positions itself as a powerful rival to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal—with a suite of privacy-first, user-centric features.

Built for Privacy and Security

XChat features end-to-end encryption, ensuring messages stay strictly between the sender and receiver. In a bold move to separate itself from phone number-dependent apps, XChat allows users to message freely without revealing their phone numbers.

Additional security comes from a required four-digit passcode, protecting user conversations even if someone gains access to their account.

Vanishing Messages, Video Calls, and More

Alongside encrypted texting, XChat supports:

• Vanish Mode for disappearing messages
• Audio and video calls
• File sharing
• Group chats (confirmed via early leaks)

The platform is built using the Rust programming language and employs what Musk describes as “Bitcoin-style” encryption, promising both performance and security.

Musk’s Super App Ambition

With over 600 million monthly users, X is evolving beyond social media. Musk’s long-term vision mirrors China’s WeChat—a digital one-stop hub combining:

• Messaging
• Payments
• Commerce
• Entertainment
• Even dating services

If fully realized, XChat could become a daily digital utility, revolutionizing how Western users interact online.

Who Can Use It Now?

Currently, XChat is exclusive to paid subscribers as part of the platform’s testing phase. A full rollout is expected in the coming months as feedback is gathered and bugs are resolved.