Instant Messaging App X Chat Introduces Typing Indicators Similar to WhatsApp, Alongside Emoji Reactions and Additional Features
X, formerly known as Twitter, has unveiled its revamped direct messaging (DM) platform, dubbed XChat. This new feature set is designed to compete with messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage.
With the latest update, users can now enjoy features such as typing indicators, emoji reactions, @mentions, searchable DM history, expanded push notifications, file sharing, disappearing messages, voice/video calls, unsend options, and end-to-end encryption for privacy.
XChat is currently available to Premium subscribers, but basic DM features are free. The deep integration of XChat within the broader X platform allows for seamless switching between social interaction and messaging, aligning with Elon Musk’s vision to make X a super-app encompassing social networking, communication, and payments.
Comparison to WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage:
| Feature | XChat | WhatsApp | Messenger | iMessage | |--------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------------------|----------------------------|-------------------------------| | Typing indicators | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Emoji reactions | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Mentions in group chats | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Searchable messages | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Block specific users' DMs | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | End-to-end encryption | Yes (standard) | Yes (standard) | Partial by default | Yes | | File sharing (any type) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Voice/video calls | Yes, no phone number needed | Yes, phone number linked | Yes | Yes | | Disappearing/vanishing messages | Yes | Yes | Limited | Yes | | Unsend message option | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | | Integration with social feed | Full integration within X | Standalone app | Standalone app | Tied to Apple ecosystem |
XChat’s main strength lies in its deep integration into the broader X ecosystem, supporting seamless transitions between social media and messaging. This differs from other apps that are standalone messaging or social platforms. It combines familiar messaging features seen in WhatsApp and iMessage with the social feed and multifunctionality aiming toward an all-in-one super app, including future plans for in-app payments and transactions.
Himani Jha, a tech news writer at the platform, has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. She has a passion for smartphones and consumer technology. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music.
It is important to note that while XChat offers many features similar to WhatsApp, some advanced features are premium-only, and the platform is still evolving towards full parity with mature messaging apps like WhatsApp and iMessage. The end-to-end encryption, vanishing messages, file sharing, voice/video calling features, and the new architecture with "Bitcoin-style encryption" for privacy are yet to be fully implemented.
- The revamped direct messaging platform XChat, available on X, offers features such as typing indicators, emoji reactions, and mentions in group chats, which are also found in popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage.
- Unlike WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage, XChat is deeply integrated into the broader X platform, allowing for seamless switching between social interaction and messaging, reflecting Elon Musk's vision to make X a super-app encompassing various functions.
