In an effort to improve user experience, social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has expanded its features to include audio and video calling for Android users (via Engadget). 

The announcement, made by X engineer @enriquebrgn, marks the gradual rollout of this much-anticipated feature, which was initially released for iOS users in October 2023.

X Video Call Feature Available for Premium Subscribers

CEO Linda Yaccarino and owner Elon Musk, envisioning X as an "everything" app, first revealed their plan to incorporate video calls into the platform in August 2023, releasing an early version two months later. 

Now, Android users can join the ranks of iOS counterparts in enjoying seamless communication within the X ecosystem.

However, this enhanced communication experience comes with a caveat. The audio and video calling features are primarily available to premium subscribers, who contribute $8 monthly or opt for an $84 annual subscription. 

Yaccarino and Musk have been steadily adding exclusive perks for premium users, positioning X as a platform with a distinct set of privileges for those willing to invest in its ambitious development.

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Secured Video Calls

For users concerned about unsolicited calls, X offers robust controls. The settings menu allows users to toggle audio and video calling on or off, providing a level of privacy customization. 

Additionally, users can limit incoming calls to specific groups, including contacts from their address book, verified users, and those they follow. These measures are designed to empower users to manage their communication preferences effectively.

The rollout of audio and video calling on Android is expected to be incremental, following a routine app update. The engineer's announcement on social media suggests an ongoing implementation, fostering anticipation among users eager to explore this new dimension of interaction within the X platform.

X Everything App

X's commitment to becoming an "everything" app is further highlighted in its vision for 2024, Musk noted in a meeting with advertisers. The company plans to introduce peer-to-peer payments and incorporate new xAI-powered features, such as "show dissimilar posts." Additionally, marketers can expect a suite of new ad products showcasing X's dedication to continuous innovation.

However, X has not been without its share of challenges. Recent reports suggest that some advertisers redirect their spending from X to alternative platforms like LinkedIn. This shift in advertiser preferences follows a controversial statement from Elon Musk during an event in November 2023. 

Musk's unorthodox approach has raised questions about the platform's ability to retain and attract advertisers in a competitive social media landscape.

While the premium subscription model may raise eyebrows, the added control over communication settings and the promise of innovative features in 2024 position X as a compelling choice for users seeking a comprehensive social media experience.

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