X has officially launched Chat, a new and more secure version of its direct messages. Chat replaces the old DM system and brings end-to-end encrypted messaging for both one-on-one chats and group conversations. With this update, X wants to offer private communication without ads, tracking, or data collection inside messages.
Chat supports file sharing, voice calls, video calls, and voice memos. Editing and deleting messages is allowed, and disappearing messages are supported. Users also get screenshot alerts and, in some cases, screenshot blocking. With these features, X is trying to match the privacy tools found in apps like Signal and WhatsApp.
How X Chat Works?
The first time a user opens Chat, the app creates a public and private key pair. These keys are used to encrypt and decrypt messages. The private key stays on the user’s device and is protected with a PIN. The PIN is not stored on X’s servers. When logging in from a new device, users can recover the private key with the same PIN.
Every conversation gets its own encryption key. These keys are exchanged safely between users using their unique key pairs. All messages, files, reactions, and links stay encrypted on the sender’s device and remain encrypted on X’s servers. Only the recipient’s device can decrypt them.
If a user logs out, Chat deletes all encrypted messages and keys from that device. The private key can still be restored later using the PIN. X will release a full technical whitepaper about the new encryption system sometime in 2025.
Who Can Use Encrypted DMs
To send or receive encrypted messages on Chat, users must be on the latest version of the X app on iOS, Android, or the web. Encrypted DMs work only if both users follow each other, subscribe to each other, have chatted before, or have accepted an encrypted DM earlier.
Message requests can also be sent to users who allow encrypted DMs from anyone or verified users who allow DMs from other verified accounts.
Security Features And Current Limitations
Chat offers strong privacy features, but there are still some limitations that X plans to improve in future updates.
- Messages in groups are encrypted, but some metadata such as recipient information and timestamps is not hidden.
- Forward secrecy is not supported yet. If a device key is stolen, old messages may be at risk.
- Man in the middle protection is not complete. Signature checks and safety numbers will be added in a future update.
- Encrypted messages cannot be reported directly. Users must report issues through the account reporting system.
Message Controls And Grok Integration
Chat allows users to unsend messages. When a message is deleted, it is removed from the other person’s inbox and from every linked device. Users can also set messages to disappear automatically after a selected time.
Chat also works with Grok. Users can ask Grok to analyze images or text inside a chat. However, when you send the message to Grok, that specific content is not encrypted. The rest of the conversation stays encrypted.
Availability
Chat is currently live on iOS and the web. Support for Android will roll out soon.
