Daily SumUp

Elon Musk's X is launching XChat in beta with encryption, vanishing messages, and file sharing.

XChat aims to enhance privacy on X, aligning with Musk's vision for an everything app.

XChat's launch follows X's encrypted messaging feature for paid users introduced in May 2023.

X, and earlier Twitter, has long been the platform of choice for users who revel in the public eye — a space to share unfiltered thoughts, "takes" of all kinds, and viral drama.

But since Elon Musk bought the platform in 2022, he has aimed to attract a more private set of users as he works to make X integral to everyday life.

His latest effort is a new feature called XChat. The "all new XChat is rolling out with encryption, vanishing messages, and the ability to send any kind of file. Also, audio/video calling," Musk said in a post on X on Sunday.

Musk said the chat function would also have "(Bitcoin style) encryption," which is a "whole new architecture." He didn't elaborate on what that actually means. X did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for clarification.