X’s New Feature: Audio and Video Calling for All Users

X, the social media giant, has recently announced that it will be expanding its audio and video calling feature to all users, regardless of whether they have a premium subscription or not. This marks a significant shift in X’s approach to its services, as previously only paying subscribers had the ability to make calls through the app.

The announcement was made by Enrique Barragan, an engineer for X, on the platform itself. X initially launched the feature for iOS users last year, allowing paying subscribers to call other users through the app. This was a step towards making X the “everything” application that Elon Musk envisioned it to be. In early 2024, the capability made its way to Android devices, but the ability to make calls remained limited to Premium subscribers only.

By the end of January, Musk stated that X would make audio-video calling available to everyone as soon as the company was confident that it was robust. Although users are still being asked to subscribe to X Premium to make calls when they click on the phone icon in DMs, those who receive the update will be able to make calls even if they’re not paying subscribers. The official X support page for the feature now states that all accounts are able to make and receive calls, though both parties must have been in contact via Direct Messaging at least once.

In addition to announcing the capability’s rollout, Barragan also revealed that users will now be able to receive calls from everyone on the app if they choose to. Audio and video calls were automatically switched on for users when they checked their DMs’ Settings menu, but users can now configure their settings so that they only receive calls from people they follow. However, the “Everyone” option is already available for the most adventurous X users.

This new feature is a significant departure from X’s previous approach to its services, which had been criticized for being too exclusive. By making audio and video calling available to all users, X is opening up its platform to a wider audience and making it more accessible to those who may not have been able to afford a premium subscription. This move is likely to be popular among X users, as it allows them to connect with their friends and family more easily and conveniently.

Furthermore, this new feature is also likely to increase user engagement on the platform, as users will now have more ways to interact with each other. Audio and video calls offer a more personal and immersive experience compared to text-based messaging, and they allow users to connect in real-time. This is particularly important in today’s world, where people are increasingly looking for ways to stay connected with each other despite physical distance.

X’s decision to expand its audio and video calling feature to all users is a smart move that is likely to be well-received by its user base. It demonstrates X’s commitment to making its platform more accessible and inclusive, and it positions X as a leader in the social media space. By offering a more comprehensive suite of features, X is setting itself apart from its competitors and providing value to its users.

In conclusion, X’s new feature of audio and video calling for all users is a significant step forward for the social media giant. It opens up the platform to a wider audience, increases user engagement, and positions X as a leader in the social media space. This move is likely to be popular among X users and is a testament to X’s commitment to providing value to its users.