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X Releases XChat on iOS With Encrypted Messaging and No-Ads Pitch

The launch marks X’s shift toward standalone apps under xAI.

Overview

  • XChat, which went live Friday on iPhone and iPad, connects to your existing X account and an Android release date has not been announced.
  • The app supports direct and group chats, audio and video calls, disappearing messages, screenshot blocking, editing or deleting for everyone, and large file sharing.
  • X says all conversations are end-to-end encrypted and protected by a PIN with no ads or tracking, and you can message without sharing a phone number.
  • Security experts question the design because X stores private encryption keys on its servers behind a four-digit PIN and because the app collects identifiers and usage data that link back to users.
  • Reporters also note that images can retain GPS and camera details and that X is retiring Communities on May 30 and steering groups into XChat, a shift that could draw users even as EU and UK privacy rules invite closer scrutiny.