Social media platform X (Twitter) has converted its messaging service XChat into a standalone app and distributed a beta version for iOS to 1,000 users, TechCrunch reported on March 3 local time.
X plans to expand the beta program soon.
XChat is an upgraded version of the existing direct message feature. X claims XChat supports end-to-end encryption, but security experts have warned it is less secure than other encrypted messaging apps such as Signal, TechCrunch reported.
It is still unclear whether the standalone app has addressed those issues.
Screenshots released by early testers show the app adopts a simpler, smoother design than the existing X app, and the login screen features a starry background.
The current version lacks a message request feature, but it will be added soon. An Android version is also expected to be released soon.
Chi-gyu Hwang
delight@d-today.co.kr