Amid rising scrutiny over data privacy, Elon Musk is set to launch a new messaging app, XChat, under X on April 17, entering a competitive space dominated by WhatsApp and other platforms.
XChat will initially be available only on iPhone and iPad, with no Android version in the first phase. The app will support 46 languages and require users to log in using an X account, without needing a phone number.
According to its listing on Apple App Store, the app will offer end-to-end encryption, no advertisements, and no user tracking, positioning itself as a privacy-first alternative.
Key features include voice and video calls, large group chats with up to 481 participants, document sharing, message editing and deletion, disappearing messages, and screenshot blocking for added privacy. The interface is expected to be minimal, with early previews showing similarities to Apple’s iMessage.
The launch is part of Musk’s broader vision to transform X into a “super app,” integrating messaging, social media, and financial services such as peer-to-peer payments. This could place XChat in direct competition not only with messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram, but also with fintech services.
The timing of the launch is notable, as WhatsApp faces a class-action lawsuit in a U.S. federal court in California. The case alleges that its parent company Meta and consulting firm Accenture intercepted private messages and shared them with third parties despite claims of end-to-end encryption.
Plaintiffs claim a “backdoor” allowed access to user messages by employees and contractors. Meta has denied the allegations, calling them “false and absurd,” and stated that WhatsApp uses the Signal encryption protocol to ensure message privacy.
The controversy has sparked reactions across the industry. Musk promoted XChat as offering “real privacy,” while Pavel Durov also criticised WhatsApp’s encryption claims.
The development highlights intensifying competition in the messaging space, with privacy and trust emerging as key differentiators.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
