According to MacRumors, X has officially launched its new Chat encrypted messaging service that replaces the existing direct messaging system on the platform. The feature is rolling out now on iOS devices through the X app and includes support for video and voice calls, disappearing messages, and file sharing capabilities. Users can edit and delete previously sent messages, and old messages should automatically transfer from the old DM system. The service also offers options to block screenshots and notify users of screenshot attempts. However, the end-to-end encryption doesn’t cover message metadata, which can include sender and recipient information. X also acknowledges the system lacks safeguards against man-in-the-middle attacks and that the company itself could potentially access conversations under legal obligations.
Serious security questions remain
Here’s the thing about this launch – it’s basically encrypted messaging with some pretty significant asterisks. The fact that metadata isn’t encrypted means X (and potentially others) can still see who you’re talking to, when you’re talking, and how much you’re communicating. And that man-in-the-middle vulnerability? That’s not exactly reassuring for a service positioning itself as a secure communication platform.
Think about it – if someone can intercept your “encrypted” conversation without either party knowing, how secure is it really? The company says they’re working on tools to let users verify their exchanges, but that feels like putting the cart before the horse. Shouldn’t those safeguards be in place before you launch a security-focused product?
Where this fits in the messaging wars
So X is clearly trying to compete with Signal, Telegram, and even WhatsApp here. But they’re entering a crowded space with what appears to be a half-baked solution. The screenshot blocking and disappearing messages are nice features that even some established players don’t offer. And the integration with X’s existing platform could be compelling for heavy users.
But security-conscious users will probably stick with more established options. Signal doesn’t have these metadata or man-in-the-middle vulnerabilities. Telegram has its own issues but at least it’s transparent about them. X’s track record with privacy and security hasn’t exactly been stellar, which makes this launch feel more like checking a box than delivering a truly secure product.
What this means for users and the platform
Basically, if you’re just sending casual messages that you don’t want permanently stored, this might be fine. But for anything truly sensitive? I’d think twice. The fact that X explicitly says they could access conversations under legal obligation is both honest and concerning.
And let’s not forget this is an iOS-only launch for now. Android users are apparently getting it “soon,” which in tech speak could mean anything from next week to next year. The voice memo feature is still in development too, so this feels like another rushed X product launch. Remember when they rolled out encrypted messaging earlier this year only to pause it in May? Seems like they might still be working through some issues.
