XChat Launches on iOS as X Expands into Messaging

X has launched its new standalone messaging app, XChat, for iOS users, marking a clear move to expand beyond its traditional social media offering and enter the competitive messaging market.

According to TechCrunch, the app allows users to communicate with contacts linked to their X accounts while offering a full range of features, including text messaging, file sharing, and voice and video calls, alongside support for group conversations.

The company had tested the app earlier this year with a limited group of users to refine performance before rolling it out more widely.

The launch reflects a broader strategy by X to develop a multi-service ecosystem that goes beyond social networking to include messaging, payments, and other digital tools. Reports indicate that a separate payments app is also being tested, though it has yet to be released publicly.

This shift suggests a change in direction from Elon Musk’s earlier vision of turning X into a single all-in-one platform, with the company now favoring standalone apps instead.

XChat includes several privacy-focused features such as message editing and deletion for all participants, disappearing messages, and restrictions on screenshots, while the company says the app does not include ads or tracking.

It also claims that messages are fully encrypted and protected by a PIN code, although some cybersecurity experts have raised concerns about whether its security standards match those of established encrypted messaging apps like Signal.

The new app may also gain momentum from replacing the discontinued “X Communities” feature, which was shut down due to low usage and spam issues.

With users potentially shifting to XChat, the platform could see a rapid increase in downloads as it seeks to strengthen its position in the global messaging space.