The social media platform Twitter, now rebranded as X, is undergoing further development. Previously, the platform had restricted audio and video calling features to Premium users only. However, Elon Musk, the owner of X, has decided to extend these features to all users on the platform. This move aligns X with competitors such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, which also offer calling functionalities.
For those interested in exploring this new feature, here’s how to initiate audio and video calls on X:
1. Launch the X app on your device and navigate to the direct messages (DM) section.
2. Choose an existing conversation or start a new message.
3. Tap on the phone icon and select either the “Audio Call” or “Video Call” option depending on your preference.
4. Once selected, the recipient will receive a notification indicating your attempt to contact them.
5. When the recipient answers the call, the conversation can begin.
In case the recipient misses the call, they will receive a notification informing them of the missed opportunity.
However, if you prefer not to engage in calls on the platform, you can opt out of this feature using the following steps:
1. Open the X app on your mobile device or laptop.
2. Tap on your profile picture and navigate to Settings and Support.
3. Select Settings and Privacy.
4. Click on the Privacy and Safety option.
5. Under “Direct messages,” locate the “Enable audio and video calling” option.
6. Turn off the slider to disable calls on the app.
Disabling this option will remove the phone symbol from your DMs, preventing other X users from initiating video or audio calls with you.
This decision by X to introduce calling features for all users underscores its commitment to enhancing user experience and competing with other social media platforms. By allowing everyone to access these features, X aims to provide a more comprehensive communication platform for its users.
It’s worth noting that while this feature expansion is exciting for users, it also comes with considerations for privacy and safety. Users should be aware of who they are communicating with and exercise caution when sharing personal information during calls.
Overall, the addition of audio and video calling to X represents a significant step forward for the platform, offering users more ways to connect and engage with each other. As X continues to evolve and introduce new features, it remains a platform to watch in the ever-changing landscape of social media.