XChat adds X Numbers, a private code for messages and calls

On 22 September X added X Numbers to XChat. With it, anyone who has a private code you share can message or call you on XChat. You do not need to follow them or accept a message request first. The feature is optional.

What XChat is

XChat is X's end-to-end encrypted messaging and calling system. You do not need to download a separate app. The Chat section that opens when you tap the message bubble at the bottom right of the X app is XChat. The first time, you are asked to set a Chat PIN. According to X's help page, this PIN lets you open your encrypted chats on another device.

XChat also launched as a standalone app for iPhone and iPad in April. Since 14 September that app has been missing from the App Store and Google Play. According to 9to5Mac, X removed it itself.

What an X Number is and what it does

An X Number is a private code used inside XChat. Despite the name, it cannot be called from a phone and does not receive SMS; it only works on X. According to X's help page, if your number is enabled and someone enters it:

• They can message you even if you do not follow them and your inbox is closed to strangers.
• The conversation goes straight to your main inbox.
• They can call you, subject to your call settings.

People you follow, people you already have a Chat with and members of the same Premium Business or Premium Organization can still reach you without it.

How to turn it on

• In the X app, tap the message bubble at the bottom right to open Chat.
• Enter your Chat PIN if asked.
• Open the dropdown menu at the top of your inbox and tap Number.

From there you can turn it on or off, tap Share to send it, or tap Refresh to replace it. People who only have the old number can no longer use it to reach you as a new contact. You will also see when someone has contacted you through your number.

Things to keep in mind

Benji Taylor, X's head of design, said in a post after the launch that the team has seen the feature be especially helpful for large accounts and professionals, and that anyone who does not want to use it can turn it off with one tap.

People you have already messaged directly can see your X Number and may share it. While it is enabled, anyone who has it can message or call you. To prevent that, turn on "Hide from others" in the X Number sheet. If the number spreads further than you intended, X advises turning it off or refreshing it.

When you try to message someone with a closed inbox, you may be asked for their X Number. According to X, this prompt appears for everyone and does not reveal who has created a number. If someone's inbox accepts message requests, you can message them without a number, and your message goes to their requests.

Sources: X Help Center: About Chat, XChat announcement, Benji Taylor's post, 9to5Mac: XChat app pulled from stores.