X rolls out its Signal-like encrypted chat feature
In a significant overhaul of its messaging system, the platform formerly known as Twitter has officially transitioned from Direct Messages (DMs) to a new feature called Chat, as part of Elon Musk’s vision for the platform now branded as X. This change introduces a host of new functionalities aimed at enhancing user privacy and security. All previous DMs and group chats remain accessible, but the user interface has undergone a complete redesign, bringing with it end-to-end encryption for all messages. Users can now edit and delete messages after sending them, and they have the option to set messages to disappear after a predetermined time, mirroring features found in privacy-focused messaging apps like Signal. X emphasizes that these updates are designed to prioritize user privacy, a claim that resonates well with many who value secure communication.
However, the transition has not been without its challenges. Longtime users of the platform have expressed frustration with the new layout and functionality. One of the most notable complaints is the difficulty in locating existing chats on the web version of X, which has become more cumbersome compared to the previous DM interface. Additionally, users have reported issues with naming group chats, which has become a complicated process, if not impossible in some cases. Performance concerns have also been raised, with many noting that the mobile app version of Chat is noticeably slower than its predecessor. This has led some groups to consider migrating to alternative platforms like Discord for their communication needs. Despite these drawbacks, the changes reflect Musk’s broader strategy to reshape X into a more private and secure social media environment, leaving many to wonder how these developments will impact the platform’s user base in the long term.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrzOhxJD2oY
The site formerly known as
Twitter
has killed what were formerly known as Twitter DMs, in favor of something new.
SEE ALSO:
Elon Musk: Tesla drivers will soon be able to text and drive
Elon Musk’s X has finally rolled out Chat, a replacement for the DM tab that has been located at the bottom right of the Twitter app for many years. All your old DMs and group chats are still there, but there have been some changes. It’s all end-to-end encrypted now; you can edit and delete messages, and even set them to disappear after a certain amount of time, similar to
Signal
. X claims this is all for the sake of privacy, of course.
This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed.
All of this came along with a UI makeover as well. While added privacy is, in concept, a very good thing, I should note that many longtime Twitter power users in my life are dismayed by these changes. Finding existing chats in the web browser version of X is now more challenging than it used to be, and changing the names of group chats has also become difficult, if not impossible. The mobile app version of Chat is also noticeably slower than what was there before, in my experience. One of my longtime group chats has already started the process of migrating to Discord.
However, it’s now Elon Musk’s site, and he can do with it as he pleases. Maybe Bluesky will finally add group chats one of these days.
