X rolls out its Signal-like encrypted chat feature
In a significant overhaul of its messaging platform, X, the site formerly known as Twitter, has officially replaced its Direct Messages (DMs) with a new feature called “Chat.” This update, which aims to enhance user privacy and modernize the messaging experience, introduces end-to-end encryption for all messages, allowing users to edit and delete messages, as well as set timers for messages to disappear, similar to functionalities found in apps like Signal. While these changes are designed to prioritize user privacy, they have sparked mixed reactions among longtime Twitter users, many of whom are struggling to adapt to the new interface and features.
The transition to Chat comes alongside a visual redesign of the X app, which has not only altered the messaging experience but also complicated it for some users. For instance, finding existing chats has become more cumbersome on the web version, and the process of renaming group chats has reportedly become difficult or impossible. Furthermore, users have noted that the mobile version of Chat is slower than its predecessor, leading some groups to consider migrating to other platforms like Discord for a more efficient communication experience. As Elon Musk continues to make sweeping changes to the platform, the future of X remains uncertain, with users left to navigate the evolving landscape of social media messaging.
The changes reflect Musk’s vision for X, but they also highlight the challenges of balancing innovation with user satisfaction. While the introduction of enhanced privacy features is a step forward, the execution has raised concerns among loyal users who have relied on Twitter’s messaging capabilities for years. As the community adjusts to these new tools, it remains to be seen whether the enhancements will ultimately improve the user experience or drive users to seek alternatives. The ongoing evolution of X serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of social media platforms and the need for companies to listen to their user base during significant transitions.
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.
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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.
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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.
