Open-source advocate Chris Messina argued that X’s code suggests users may need a premium subscription on X to use the new feature.
Since taking over at X (formerly Twitter), Elon Musk has been working to transform the microblogging platform into a super app. The latest feature to be added to X is the audio and video calling functionality, according to the Verge.
Users are receiving notifications stating that “audio and video calls are here” when opening the X app. However, there have been no official announcements of the launch. What is available is a previous hint by Elon Musk that the features would soon be unveiled for all users across iOS, Android, Mac, and PC.
Similarly, company CEO Linda Yaccarino confirmed in August that native calling capabilities were coming to the app. Yaccarino noted it would be possible to make audio and video calls without sharing numbers. She also stated that the functionality will be available within the Direct Message (DM) menu. Additionally, she explained the feature will provide restrictions to prevent users from spam calls.
How to Use the Audio and Video Calling Functionality
To use the feature, users need to toggle the new “Enable audio and video calling” option in the app’s settings. This allows the user maximum control over the feature. Again, users can decide who they’re comfortable using the feature with. Users can either allow audio and video calls from those in their address book, followers, verified users, or all three.
After this, you can make a call by starting a DM with the user of interest, choosing the phone icon, and selecting audio or video call.
Will the New Features Be Made Available at a Premium?
Open-source advocate Chris Messina argued that X’s code suggests users may need a premium subscription on X to use the new feature. However, this may not be limiting as there have been talks that Musk may be considering a premium subscription for all users.
As part of its ‘Not A Bot’ program, Musk said X would not charge a yearly subscription of $1. The program is to rack up “significant efforts to reduce spam, platform manipulation, activity”. So far, the plan has taken effect in New Zealand and the Philippines. There are also plans to kickstart it in other places.
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