X launches encrypted messaging app XChat on iOS
Image: Primary X's standalone messaging app XChat launched on the iOS App Store Friday, marking the full rollout of Elon Musk's overhauled direct-message platform. The app had been available for pre-orders last week and emphasizes user privacy through end-to-end encryption.
Beyond encryption, XChat promises zero user tracking, no ads, and in-message privacy tools including the ability to hide photos from recipients after sending. The launch comes nearly a year after the service was rebranded under the XChat name.
To make way for XChat, X is discontinuing its Communities feature, which functioned as curated interest-based feeds similar to Reddit subreddits or Bluesky Feeds. X's Head of Product Nikita Bier said the feature saw minimal traction, with only 0.4% of users ever engaging with it. Those who did were largely user-acquisition channels for Kick or compensated clipper communities.
XChat will offer large-scale group chats currently capped at 350 users, with plans to expand the ceiling to 1,000. Communities will officially shut down on May 30.
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