Highlights

• X introduces audio and video calling, initially available exclusively for iOS.
• Android users will have to wait for the feature, which is expected to roll out at a later date.
• The new feature offers user customization, with options to limit calls to certain groups such as followers or verified accounts.
• Questions remain about the availability of the feature for premium subscribers only.

In a quiet but significant move, X (formerly Twitter) has introduced audio and video calling capabilities for its users.

This feature, which was rolled out without much fanfare, is likely to change the dynamics of the platform, taking it beyond a text-based microblogging site.

The introduction came after a cryptic teaser from the platform’s owner, Elon Musk, who tweeted “ready for it…?”

just as notifications about the new feature began popping up for users.

The Feature Explained

Some X users have reported receiving a notification that reads, “Audio and video calls are here!” To enable the feature, users need to go to the app settings where a toggle for “Enable audio and video calling” is now available.

The options for the feature are quite versatile.

Users can customize who can contact them, with the ability to limit calls to those in their address book, those they follow, verified users, or a mix of these categories.

Starting a call is straightforward.

Users can initiate a call by opening a direct message with another user, and selecting the phone icon located in the top right corner of the screen.

Elon Musk has stated that the feature will be compatible across multiple platforms—iOS, Android, Mac, and PC—and, interestingly, doesn’t require a phone number to operate.

Currently, however, the feature only works on iOS devices with a broader roll-out expected soon.

Premium or for All?

What remains ambiguous is whether this feature will be exclusive to premium subscribers.

X has increasingly moved valuable features under its premium umbrella, which could suggest that audio and video calling might also be locked behind a paywall.

This speculation gains further traction as Musk has recently announced plans to charge an annual fee for accessing the platform.

The company has already started testing this approach in select countries, charging users in New Zealand and the Philippines $1 per year.

The Broader Implications

The annual fee, X states, aims to combat bots and spammers on the platform while balancing the need for platform accessibility.

The introduction of audio and video calls could be a significant draw for users, making the annual fee more palatable.

FAQs

How can iOS users enable the audio and video calling feature on X?

iOS users can activate this feature by going into the app settings and toggling on the “Enable audio and video calling” option. They can then customize who is allowed to call them.

Is the new feature also available for Android users?

Currently, the feature has been introduced only for iOS. Android users will have to wait for a future update to gain access.

Is the audio and video calling feature exclusive to premium users?

It’s not yet clear whether the feature will be available only for premium subscribers. Historically, X has placed new features under its premium service.

Is X planning to charge an annual fee for using the platform?

Elon Musk has hinted at an annual fee for using X, with pilot trials already happening in select countries like New Zealand and the Philippines.