X, formerly Twitter, launches audio and video calling to all users, realizing Elon Musk's 'super app' vision. User-controlled calling preferences address concerns about unknown callers. Access calling settings through 'Settings and privacy' > 'Privacy and safety' > 'Direct messages'.
X
, the
social media platform
formerly known as
, has finally rolled out its highly anticipated audio and video calling feature to all users, not just premium subscribers.
Previously, X's calling feature was locked behind the X Premium paywall, leaving non-subscribers out in the cold. Now, everyone can join the video party, seamlessly connecting with friends and family directly through direct messages.
This is another step on X towards its much ambitious goal of becoming a "
super app
" -- something which owner
Elon Musk
has been propagating for a while now. X is aiming to become your one-stop social hub, offering a comprehensive set of features without requiring you to juggle multiple apps. By opening up calling to all users, X is making itself more accessible and potentially attracting new users who previously relied on other platforms for video chat.
The introduction of this feature stirred some controversy upon announcement, with concerns raised about users potentially receiving calls from unknown individuals. To address this, X has implemented user controls, allowing individuals to manage their calling preferences. Users have the flexibility to specify who can call them or can opt to disable the calling feature entirely.
How to setup calling feature on X
You can enable the calling feature by following these steps:
- Open the X app
- Tap on your profile picture at the top
- Select "Settings and privacy"
- Navigate to the "Privacy and safety" menu
- Tap on the "Direct messages" option
- Adjust audio and video calling preferences as desired
Users can opt to receive calls exclusively from contacts in their address book, accounts they follow, or limit calls to verified users. For those who prefer not to receive calls on X, a simple toggle switch labeled "Enable audio and video calling" allows users to deactivate the feature entirely, providing full control over who can call them or not.