X’s Encrypted DM Feature, XChat, Is Rolling Out More Broadly
X’s encrypted DM feature, XChat, is rolling out more broadly after months of limited testing. The secure messaging tool, first introduced in beta back in May, is now reaching more users—including those who don’t subscribe to X Premium.
This expansion marks a significant shift in how X approaches private communication, giving users more control over their messages and privacy. With XChat, encrypted conversations are finally becoming a standard option rather than a premium-only perk.
What Makes XChat Different from Regular DMs?
Unlike the standard inbox, XChat is fully end-to-end encrypted. That means only you and your chat partner can read the messages—keeping conversations secure from outsiders, including X itself.
The platform goes beyond simple text. Users can share media, create group chats, pin important messages, and mark conversations as read or unread. Reports also suggest that a “vanishing mode” for disappearing chats may be coming soon.
How to Access XChat on Desktop and Mobile
Accessing X’s encrypted DM feature, XChat, is straightforward but requires opting in.
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On desktop: Go to the messages tab, then select “Chat” from the dropdown above “Message requests.”
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On mobile: A “Chat” icon now appears in the left-side navigation bar, just above Communities.
Before you can start messaging, X requires you to set up a four-digit security code. This step ensures that your encrypted messages are protected, much like Signal or other secure platforms.
Why X Isn’t Replacing DMs Just Yet
XChat is not yet replacing the traditional DM system. Instead, the old inbox remains active and is labeled as “unencrypted.” This allows users to switch between regular and secure messaging depending on their preferences.
By keeping both systems, X is making the transition gradual, likely to avoid confusion and allow users to adapt at their own pace.
Why This Rollout Matters for X Users
The fact that X’s encrypted DM feature, XChat, is rolling out more broadly shows that the platform is doubling down on user privacy. Encrypted messaging is no longer just a bonus feature for paid subscribers—it’s becoming an essential part of the X experience.
As concerns about data security continue to rise, this move could help X build more trust with its user base and better compete with rivals like Signal, WhatsApp, and Telegram.
