Elon Musk’s announcement of video and audio calling features on X, formerly known as Twitter, is a significant step towards turning the platform into an “everything app.” However, some users have reported not seeing the feature in their app, raising questions about its availability.
Elon Musk Teases Video and Audio Calls on X, Formerly Twitter
Elon Musk, the owner of X (formerly Twitter), has announced the development of video and audio calling features on the platform. Musk’s post on Wednesday included a screen capture showing how to enable the feature in the platform’s settings. The options displayed in the screen capture included voice and audio calls to contacts in a user’s address book, all verified users, and people they follow on the service.
However, despite Musk’s announcement, some users have reported not seeing the feature in their app. This discrepancy raises questions about the availability and rollout of the video and audio calling features. Even a version tested by AFP did not display the feature, adding to the confusion.
Musk’s announcement in August about the development of voice and video calls on X was seen as a significant move towards transforming the former Twitter into an “everything app.” These calling features are expected to work on various systems, including iOS, Android, Mac, and PC, without the need for a phone number. Musk emphasized that X is the effective global address book, positioning the platform as a comprehensive communication tool.
Since Musk acquired Twitter last October, the platform’s advertising business has suffered, with marketers disenchanted by his management style and content moderation practices. As a response, Musk has shifted his focus towards building a subscriber base and implementing a pay model to generate new revenue. Audio and video calls are expected to be among the features offered to X subscribers, potentially attracting users and advertisers who have been critical of recent changes to the platform.
Musk’s rebranding of Twitter as X in July aimed to create an “everything app” inspired by China’s WeChat, allowing users to socialize and manage their finances within the platform. Alongside the rebranding, Musk replaced Twitter’s iconic blue bird logo with a white X, symbolizing the platform’s transformation.
Despite Musk’s efforts to expand the functionality of X and diversify its revenue streams, some users and advertisers have expressed dissatisfaction with the site’s new charges for previously free services. Additionally, concerns have been raised about changes to content moderation and the return of previously banned far-right accounts.
In conclusion, Elon Musk’s announcement of video and audio calling features on X marks a significant step towards transforming the platform into an all-encompassing app. However, the discrepancy in the availability of these features raises questions about their rollout and implementation. As X continues to evolve, it faces challenges in satisfying users and advertisers while maintaining a fresh and engaging environment.
