X Introduces Audio and Video Calling on Android: Premium Subscribers Get Exclusive Access

Highlights

• X rolls out audio and video calling for Android users, following iOS integration.
• Outbound calls exclusive to X Premium subscribers, enhancing platform’s premium offerings.
• Feature accessibility requires app update; inbound calls available to all users.
• Privacy settings allow users to manage who can call them, ensuring user control.

X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, has recently expanded its audio and video calling features to Android users.

This follows the successful launch of these features for iOS users last October.

According to X developer Enrique Barragan, Android users may need to update their app to access the new functionality.

X’s Android App Getting Voice Calls

In a significant move, X has made receiving calls available to all users, but the ability to initiate calls is exclusive to X Premium subscribers.

This distinction is part of X’s strategy to increase its subscriber base, especially as its traditional revenue streams, like ad sales, have been underperforming.

The cost of X Premium starts at $3 per month for the “Basic” tier.

However, it is not explicitly stated in X’s Help Centre which subscription level includes the outbound video and audio calling feature.

For users concerned about privacy, X provides options to manage who can call them.

These settings are accessible under Settings > Privacy and safety > Direct Messages > Enable audio and video calling.

Users can restrict incoming calls to contacts in their address book, users they follow, or accounts verified with blue ticks.

This development is a part of X’s broader strategy to enhance user experience and offer exclusive features to its premium subscribers.

This tactic has been employed before, with features like Tweetdeck and ad revenue sharing being used to attract new subscribers.

However, the company has also been known to remove certain features, such as NFT profile pictures, indicating a dynamic approach to its service offerings and user engagement strategies.

FAQs

What is X’s new feature for Android users?

X has recently launched audio and video calling features for Android users.

This rollout follows the feature’s successful implementation on iOS devices, allowing Android users to engage in audio and video conversations directly through the X app.

Who can use the outbound calling feature on X?

The ability to make outbound calls on X is reserved for X Premium subscribers.

This approach is part of X’s strategy to offer exclusive features to paid members, as the platform seeks to diversify its revenue streams beyond traditional advertising.

How can Android users access X’s new calling feature?

To access the audio and video calling feature, Android users need to update their X app to the latest version.

Once updated, they can find the option to enable these features in the app’s privacy and safety settings.

Can all X users receive audio and video calls?

Yes, all X users, regardless of their subscription status, can receive audio and video calls.

This inclusivity ensures that the platform remains accessible for broader user interaction and engagement.

How can users manage an audio call on XWhile on an audio call ?

•Tap the audio icon to put the call on the speaker.

•Mute or unmute microphone by tapping the microphone icon.

•End the call by tapping the X button.

How can users manage a video call on XWhile on a video call ?

•Switch between the front or back-facing camera by tapping the flip camera icon.
•Tap the audio icon to turn off speaker mode.
•Turn the camera off by tapping the camera icon.
•Mute microphone by tapping the microphone icon.
•End the call by tapping the X button.

How to control who can call you ?

•Open the messages section by tapping on the envelope icon.
•Tap the settings icon in the top right corner that will open up the Messages settings.
•In the messages settings users can control if they’d like the audio and video calling feature to be enabled or not.
•If the audio and video calling feature is enabled, users can choose who is able to call them.
•Users can choose to receive calls from:
•People in your address book
•People you follow
•Verified users

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