X Temporarily Disables Encrypted DMs to Launch New Messaging Features

 

X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced a temporary suspension of its encrypted direct messaging (DM) feature as it works on major upgrades to its messaging infrastructure. In a recent update, the platform confirmed that users will still be able to access previously sent encrypted messages, but the ability to send new ones has been paused until further notice. The decision reflects ongoing backend improvements aimed at expanding the platform’s messaging capabilities. 

The move comes as X accelerates its efforts to position itself as an all-in-one communication platform, integrating functions typically found in dedicated messaging apps. Elon Musk, owner of X, has consistently emphasized the importance of message encryption as part of this broader transformation. Alongside encryption, the company has also been working to introduce features such as video messaging, voice calls, file sharing, disappearing messages, and more—many of which are commonly found in platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. 

While X hasn’t confirmed a launch timeline, there has been speculation that the revamped messaging platform will be branded as “XChat.” Early glimpses of these features have already surfaced in test environments, but a complete rollout has yet to take place. These potential upgrades aim to deliver a more modern, secure, and multi-functional experience for users communicating within the app. Just last month, an X engineer noted that the entire DM system is undergoing a complete code rewrite. The goal is to deliver a more chat-like interface that is robust, scalable, and aligned with future functionalities. This redevelopment may also be tied to X’s longer-term ambition to support in-app payments and money transfers. 

A fully encrypted, streamlined messaging system would be a foundational step in enabling those financial features securely. Although the platform has not shared detailed documentation or a public roadmap, the encryption pause signals a broader overhaul underway. X has become known for rolling out updates with minimal pre-release information, often making changes live as development progresses. That said, given the significance of encryption in any secure communication tool, it’s expected that this feature will return as part of a larger suite of upgrades.  

For now, users should be aware that while their encrypted DMs remain viewable, they cannot send new encrypted messages. A follow-up announcement is anticipated in the near future, likely marking the launch of the redesigned messaging platform—possibly XChat—that combines privacy, functionality, and potentially even payments, into one seamless experience.