X Chat Rolls Out Enhanced Features to iPhone, Bolstering E2EE and Voice/Video Calls

X has initiated a phased global rollout of its significantly revamped X Chat feature for iPhone users, introducing robust end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for messaging, voice calls, and video calls. The update, available via X app version 10.78 or later, positions the platform as a stronger contender in the secure messaging landscape, directly challenging established services with a focus on user privacy and expanded communication capabilities. The rollout commenced on November 13, 2025, with full availability anticipated by the week's end, though some regions, particularly within the EU, experienced slight delays due to compliance checks.

The new X Chat, detailed by sources including 9to5Mac and MacRumors, marks a substantial upgrade from X's previous direct messaging system. TechCrunch reported on November 16, 2025, that these enhancements address prior privacy limitations, aiming to compete with apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Apple's iMessage. Early data from Sensor Tower, as corroborated by The Verge on November 17, 2025, indicates over 5 million iPhone users downloaded the update within the first 72 hours, contributing to a 25% increase in X app engagement metrics compared to the previous month.

Core Features and Robust Security Enhancements

The latest X Chat iteration introduces a suite of features designed to elevate private communication within the X ecosystem. Central to this update is E2EE, now standard for all one-on-one direct messages, voice calls, video calls (up to 1080p resolution), and file transfers. X states its E2EE protocol employs a peer-to-peer system, utilizing up to 256-bit AES encryption for key exchanges. A November 15, 2025, audit summary by cybersecurity firm Trail of Bits rated the system as "highly secure," finding no backdoors.

Beyond encryption, users gain the ability to edit messages within 15 minutes of sending, set timer-based disappearing messages, receive screenshot notifications, and transfer files up to 2GB. A notable differentiator highlighted by X CEO Elon Musk on November 13, 2025, is the option for encrypted audio and video calls "without needing to share your phone number," a departure from many competing services. The updated system also supports E2EE group calls for up to eight participants, an expansion from the initial one-on-one launch in October 2025. X's engineering team emphasized rebuilding the messaging stack for iOS to ensure "unbreakable privacy," explicitly stating "no AWS, no trackers" and "zero data profiling" in chats.

Rollout Metrics and Community Reception

The rollout has seen significant traction, reaching approximately 120 million iOS devices globally as of November 17, 2025, according to App Annie data via TechCrunch. The United States accounts for 45% of peak downloads, followed by India at 15% and Brazil at 10%. Engagement data shows a 40% uptick in daily active users for DM features post-update. Early call usage statistics from November 14, 2025, revealed over 2 million encrypted voice/video calls were made in the first 24 hours, with an average duration of 8 minutes.

Community reaction has been largely positive, particularly regarding the privacy features. iPhone users on platforms like Reddit and Mastodon have praised the update, with many calling it a "game-changer" and highlighting crystal-clear call quality. A Reddit poll indicated 78% of 1,200 respondents planned to switch from other messaging applications. However, some mixed feedback includes reports of audio glitches during calls on older iPhone models, reflected in an average App Store rating of 4.2/5 stars post-update, according to Appfigures. Privacy advocates, while commending the no-phone-number requirement, have called for further open-source audits of the encryption protocol.

Strategic Positioning and Regional Impact

X Chat's enhanced rollout is a strategic move to position itself as a comprehensive communication platform. Its integration within the broader X social ecosystem allows for seamless transitions between public engagement and private, secure conversations. iOS-specific optimizations, such as Picture-in-Picture mode for video calls, Siri integration, and a reported 15% reduction in battery drain compared to previous DM features, further enhance the user experience.

Regionally, the update has seen rapid adoption in the US and North America since November 13, 2025, with X emphasizing compliance with CCPA regulations. In the EU, the rollout incorporates GDPR-compliant features, though MacRumors reported 1-2 day delays in countries like Germany and France for App Store review. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly India, has shown high demand for file-sharing features, with over 10 million downloads. However, the feature remains unavailable in China due to app store restrictions. Brazil is exploring future integration with local payment systems, while other regions in Latin America and Africa are experiencing a slower rollout, influenced by local internet infrastructure.