X Video and Audio Calling to be Available on iPhones for a Fee
Ever since Elon Musk acquired X (formerly Twitter), the platform has undergone numerous changes. These include the removal of legacy verification, the introduction of X Premium, and a major rebranding campaign. Musk is determined to turn X into a “global marketplace for ideas, goods, services, and opportunities.” While X already offers various ways for users to connect, such as DMs and Spaces, it is now planning to compete with FaceTime by adding video and audio calling features. This feature is expected to be implemented soon, as indicated by new code found in the X app. However, it will likely only be available to premium subscribers.
X to get video and voice calling features
In the X message, Elon Musk announced that “Video and voice calls are coming to X. Works on iOS, Android, Mac and PC. No phone number required. X is a powerful global address book. This set of factors is unique.” This feature is similar to the in-app calling feature that Facebook has for its Messenger platform. While no tentative release date was announced, recent code found in the iPhone X app reveals that it could be coming soon.
The code seen by code diver @aaronp613 has revealed that the X could soon bring video and voice calling features to rival apps like FaceTime. However, it is said to be a premium feature that is only available to those who subscribe to X Premium, according to an iMore report. The string in the code says “Voice and video calls are a premium feature. Please subscribe to get access.” So far, this feature has only been reported to exist for iPhone users after it was spotted in the code of an iPhone X app, but it is expected to offer cross-platform functionality.
What about security?
Since these video and voice calls on X do not require a phone number, the question of encryption arises. One user had commented on Musk’s message asking the same thing. Musk replied: “Not at first, but we’re adding the ability to dynamically turn encryption on or off. There’s bound to be a small delay in encryption. Most of the time, encryption isn’t important and the call quality is better.”
Could its lack prevent users from using video and voice calls on X at a time when platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and others offer fully encrypted calls? What about paying for the service? It’s really exciting!
