X (formerly Twitter) is rolling out audio and video calling features to redefine how users connect online. This anticipated feature, recently hinted at by tech mogul Elon Musk, is now on its way to becoming accessible to all, enabling voice and video communication like never before. Let’s delve into this significant update that promises to bring people closer through enhanced connectivity on X.
In August of this year, X’s CEO, Linda Yaccarino, confirmed the imminent arrival of native calling capabilities on the platform. Users on X will soon be able to engage in video or audio calls without exchanging phone numbers. This marks a pivotal shift towards more secure, convenient, and user-friendly digital interactions.
According to Indian Express, during an exclusive interview with CNBC, Yaccarino shared insights into how this exciting feature will work. The new functionality will seamlessly integrate into the ‘Direct Message’ (DM) menu and will include measures to prevent spam calls, ensuring users’ seamless and secure experience. This highlights X’s commitment to user satisfaction and digital safety.
How to enable audio and video calls on X
Getting started with audio and video calls on X is simple. Head to your app settings, locate ‘Privacy and Safety,’ and click ‘Direct Messages.’ You’ll find the ‘Enable audio and video calling’ toggle inside. Turn it on, and you can communicate with your X contacts through voice and video.
ready for it…?
— X (@X) October 25, 2023
While the introduction of this feature is promising, its availability to non-premium users is still unclear. Clues in X’s code by Chris Messina suggest that users may need a Premium subscription to access this feature. This development underlines X’s journey towards becoming a more feature-rich platform, though specific details are yet to be revealed.
Yaccarino confirmed it months ago
Just a few months ago, X’s CEO, Linda Yaccarino, confirmed that native calling capabilities would soon be integrated into the platform, The Verge added. X users can enjoy video and audio calls without exchanging phone numbers. It’s a big step forward in making digital interactions more secure, user-friendly, and hassle-free.
Video calls 🔥 pic.twitter.com/PXIzrQ8Mz2
— Linda Yaccarino (@lindayaX) October 26, 2023
Yaccarino’s enthusiasm for the new feature was evident when she posted a picture of herself engaged in a video conversation on X, captioning it with “Video calls 🔥.” Her direct endorsement reinforces this new feature’s excitement and highlights X’s commitment to enhancing user experiences.
Elon Musk has discussed the possibility of charging users an annual fee for platform access. This initiative has already started in New Zealand and the Philippines, where users are asked to pay a modest $1 per year. It’s all part of X’s strategy to sustain and enhance the user experience, and as the platform continues to evolve, we can anticipate even more exciting developments on the horizon. With X’s new audio and video calling features, the future of digital communication looks brighter than ever.
Featured image credit: Julian Christ/Unsplash
