A new messenger without ads or tracking? Elon Musk prepares to launch XChat

Elon Musk continues expanding the ecosystem of the X platform. On April 17, a standalone messaging app called XChat is expected to appear in the App Store. The new service is designed to compete with established messengers such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal.

What XChat is

Unlike the built-in messaging system inside X, the new messenger is positioned as a fully standalone product. However, it remains closely tied to the X ecosystem — users will need an X account to use XChat.

According to its listing description, the app is expected to support:

• Text messaging and group chats (up to 481 participants)
• Voice and video calls
• File sharing
• Message editing, deletion, and disappearing messages
• Screenshot protection in private chats
• End-to-end encryption

One of the key features is the ability to make calls without linking a phone number, which could make communication more flexible and privacy-friendly in certain situations.

Focus on privacy

Musk has repeatedly emphasized that XChat is intended to be one of the most secure messaging platforms possible. The official announcement describes it as a private communication space designed without advertising or tracking, featuring full end-to-end encryption.

Developers claim that the platform will not analyze message content, and that its encryption system is inspired by principles similar to those used in Bitcoin. However, cryptography experts have criticized this wording, noting that the comparison is technically vague and potentially misleading.

Skepticism and security concerns

Despite bold promises, skepticism has already emerged around XChat. Cybersecurity specialists point out that the technical details of its end-to-end encryption have not yet been fully disclosed.

Another concern is the mandatory link to an X account, which could allow the platform to collect significant amounts of metadata about users — even if message contents remain encrypted.

Privacy policy disclosures also raise questions. Under the rules of Apple, the app may collect and associate certain data — such as location, contacts, and usage activity — with a user’s identity. That appears to conflict somewhat with the promise of maximum privacy.

Release timing and availability

At launch, XChat is expected to be available only for iOS devices (iPhone and iPad). There is currently no official information about when an Android version will be released.

In brief

On April 17, Elon Musk is expected to launch XChat — a new standalone messenger focused on privacy, end-to-end encryption, and the absence of advertising and tracking. The app will support voice and video calls, group chats of up to 481 users, and communication without a phone number. XChat is designed to become part of the broader X ecosystem and compete with WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. However, experts are already raising questions about the real level of security and the transparency of its encryption implementation.