Elon Musk Unveils XChat, a New Messenger with “Bitcoin-Like” Encryption
Date: 2025-06-02 Author: Gabriel Deangelo Categories: BUSINESS
Elon Musk has announced the launch of a new messenger called XChat, built into the X platform ecosystem. According to the entrepreneur, the app uses “Bitcoin-style encryption,” is developed in the Rust language, and has a fundamentally new architecture. XChat supports end-to-end encryption, self-destructing messages, the ability to exchange any files, as well as voice and video calls. An interesting feature is that registration in the app does not require a phone number.
However, Musk’s statement has caused controversy. Many cryptography experts and developers associated with the Bitcoin ecosystem questioned his claims. Among them was Luke Dashjr, one of the Bitcoin Core developers and CTO of OCEAN. He emphasized that Bitcoin itself does not use encryption. This opinion was supported by the CEO of JAN3 and Pixelmatic — Samson Mow, adding that the network of the first cryptocurrency works on the principles of open signatures, not encryption.
In terms of technical implementation, Bitcoin uses cryptographic signatures to confirm transactions, but does not encrypt the transmitted data. This allows any network participant to interact with the blockchain without violating the principles of decentralization and transparency.
Professor of the University of Maryland Ian Myers compared Musk's statement to an attempt to launch a rocket on water, explaining that phrases like "bitcoin-style" and "Rust" do not describe the real cryptographic model and cannot serve as proof of the high security of the messenger. He also expressed doubt that encryption is limited only to the Rust language if messages are available exclusively within the application.
Last week, TechCrunch reported that XChat is already being tested in closed mode. Some users with a paid subscription on the X platform received access to the beta version. Developer Nima Owji confirmed that the messenger is technically ready and the launch is in its final stages.
The announcement of XChat came shortly after Musk denied rumors about an alleged deal between Telegram and his company xAI. Earlier, Pavel Durov announced an agreement that included the integration of Grok AI and a payment of $300 million. Musk responded by assuring that no documents had been signed. Later, Durov explained that the deal was not formally formalized, but was practically agreed upon and only required the completion of formalities.
