Tue Nov 18 11:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

X (formerly Twitter) has launched “Chat,” a major upgrade to its direct messaging system. Chat features end-to-end encryption (though with limitations regarding metadata and potential man-in-the-middle attacks), video and voice calls, disappearing messages, and file sharing. The feature is currently available on iOS and the web, with an Android version coming soon. It replaces the previous messaging system, with existing messages being migrated. X had previously introduced encrypted DMs in 2023 but paused the feature for improvements.

News Article:

X Launches Encrypted “Chat” Messaging Service, Promises Enhanced Privacy

SAN FRANCISCO – X, formerly known as Twitter, has unveiled “Chat,” a revamped and encrypted direct messaging service designed to offer users enhanced privacy and communication features. The announcement, made Friday, marks a significant overhaul of the platform’s messaging capabilities.

Chat boasts end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for both messages and file sharing, aiming to secure user communications. However, X acknowledges that metadata, such as sender and recipient information and timestamps, will not be encrypted. A support page also reveals that the system isn’t fully protected against man-in-the-middle attacks, admitting potential vulnerabilities should X itself or a malicious insider compromise a conversation. The company states that work is in progress for verifying message authenticity and device identity.

Beyond encryption, Chat offers other privacy-focused features. Disappearing messages can be set to automatically delete after a specified timeframe, and users can choose to receive notifications when screenshots are taken of a conversation or block screenshots entirely. Message editing and deletion are also supported.

The upgraded messaging service further expands functionality with the introduction of voice and video calls, with voice notes planned for a future release.

Chat is currently available on iOS and the web, with an Android version expected to launch “soon.” It replaces the existing X messaging system, seamlessly migrating users’ previous conversations.

X initially introduced encrypted DMs in 2023, but temporarily halted the feature in May to implement improvements. Chat appears to be the culmination of these efforts, signaling X’s commitment to bolstering user privacy within its platform.

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