X, formerly and more known as Twitter, has had several new features since the rebranding, a lot of which can only be used by Premium users. Certain features like the audio and video call, however, have been made available to non-subscribers as well.
X Opens Audio, Video Calls to All Users
The audio and video call feature was part of the slow process of making X an "everything app," but it seemed that users had to pay to experience some of the features that the platform had to offer. With the latest announcement, the communication function will become available for all.
X engineer Enrique Barragan said on the social media site that they are "slowly rolling out audio and video calling to non premium users," and that users can now choose to allow calls from anyone aside from verified users or the people one follows.
Elon Musk, the owner of X, already said that he intends to make the feature free as soon as the company is confident that it is robust, as reported by Engadget. Since it is being rolled out slowly, you might not have the feature and will have to wait for the update.
To engage in an audio or video call, both parties must have already contacted each other through a direct message. As for the restrictions on who can contact users, the "Everyone" option is a welcome addition.
However, the other choices are still very much appreciated, especially if you don't want people you don't follow to call you. If you are open to anyone being able to contact you, it would be advisable to use other security measures available on the app.
For instance, X has an "Enhanced call privacy" feature that can be toggled on, and enabling it means that your IP address will remain hidden from your contact during the call. It's a convenient option if you don't want to opt for VPNs.
X's Current State
The feature being opened to all could be X's attempt to encourage users to go back to the app or sign up, especially since it has not exactly had the best of luck since Musk took over the company. Other than users leaving the platform, several advertisers decided to pull out as well.
In November 2023, it was reported that the social media company could lose about $75 million in revenue as several advertisers exited, prompted by the actions of the owner himself. Some left not long after the acquisition, while others followed after Musk's whole antisemitic controversy.
It didn't help that the billionaire's approach to the situation was more hostile than apologetic, threatening a "thermonuclear name & shame" for those who left. Tech giants like Apple, IBM, Warner Bros. Discovery, and many more have already left the service with no intention of returning.
At the helm as CEO, Linda Yaccarino continues to put out fires and convince people that X is doing well and will continue to be developed into an "everything app." Currently, X seems to be going steady and might recover from all the mess it has been through.
