A new messaging platform from X, named XChat, has appeared on the App Store, with a listing indicating an expected release date of April 17, 2026. While the name may evoke memories of the early-2000s IRC client for some, this modern iteration is a dedicated messaging service built specifically for the X ecosystem.
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Elon Musk first signalled a “whole new architecture” for the platform’s direct messaging in mid-2025, promising a fully encrypted experience. Although Musk initially projected a June 2025 rollout for all users, the project has evolved into this standalone application rather than a simple in-app upgrade.
Your encrypted chats deserve their own app.
Pre-order now: https://t.co/TM8Lk7AMGV pic.twitter.com/ZJ3yROXK1t
See also
— XChat (@chat) April 10, 2026
The standalone app enables users to chat and place calls with any of their X contacts across multiple devices. Security is a primary focus, as the app features end-to-end encryption and provides the ability to edit or delete messages for everyone in a conversation. Privacy-conscious users can take advantage of screenshot blocking and a disappearing messages feature that clears sensitive data within five minutes. Additionally, XChat supports massive group conversations with a capacity of up to 481 members.
X’s App Store listing makes the bold claim that XChat will remain ad-free and will not track its users, positioning it as a privacy-centric alternative in the crowded messaging market. Users can currently pre-order the app for iPhone and iPad to ensure it automatically downloads once it officially goes live later this week.
