X Launches ‘Chat‘: A New Encrypted Messaging service
X, formerly known as Twitter, has launched “Chat,” a new encrypted messaging service designed to replace its existing Direct Message (DM) functionality. Currently available on iOS and web platforms, with an Android version planned for release, Chat aims to provide a more secure and feature-rich dialog experience.
The core feature of Chat is end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for both messages and file sharing. However, X acknowledges limitations in its security model. While message content is encrypted, metadata – including sender and recipient data – remains unprotected. The company admits this leaves the system vulnerable to malicious insiders and imperfect protection against man-in-the-middle attacks, stating that users currently have no way to detect intervention from a compromised internal actor.X plans to address this by introducing a message authenticity verification function in the future.
Beyond encryption, Chat offers a suite of features designed to enhance user control and privacy. These include the ability to set disappearing messages that automatically delete after a specified time,screenshot blocking,and notifications when a screenshot is attempted. Users can also edit or delete sent messages.
X previously implemented encrypted DMs in 2023, but suspended the feature for improvements. The launch of Chat represents a notable overhaul of the platformS messaging capabilities,promising strengthened security and expanded functionality.
According to a post from the official Chat account on November 14, 2025, the service boasts:
* End-to-end encrypted chats and file sharing
* Message editing, deletion, and disappearing message options
* Screenshot blocking and attempt notifications
* An ad-free and tracking-free experience, prioritizing user privacy.
