Published on April 12, 2026
X’s messaging app, XChat, is set to launch on April 17, according to its App Store listing. This new application is distinct from the IRC service from the early 2000s and is designed specifically for users of the X social network. Elon Musk initially hinted at enhancements to direct messaging features in mid-2025 but has pivoted to a standalone app instead.
XChat will facilitate real-time communication among users, supporting both text and voice calls across devices. The app features end-to-end encryption, options for editing and deleting messages for all chat participants, and tools to block screenshots and enable disappearing messages that vanish after five minutes. It also allows creation of group chats with up to 481 members.
Pre-orders for XChat are currently available on iPhones and iPads, enabling automatic download upon release. The company claims the app will be free from advertisements and will not collect user tracking data.
This release represents a significant shift in X’s strategy for messaging, aiming to enhance user privacy and communication capability. Musk’s previous timelines have been criticized, raising questions about the execution and reliability of this promise.
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