The world of social media is constantly evolving. and one of the platforms that is most committed to innovation is X, the social network formerly known as Twitter. The launch of the audio and video calls on X represents an important leap in its goal of becoming a true super app, integrating functionalities that until now dominated platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Instagram. Below, we offer a Comprehensive and fully updated guide to activating and configuring this new calling feature in X, covering all key aspects of privacy, compatibility, requirements, managing who can call you, and potential risks.
What are audio and video calls on X (Twitter) and what are they for?
This function allows X users to communicate via voice and video natively within the app itself, taking advantage of the infrastructure of the direct messages (DM). What was previously exclusively text or audio messages now offers the ability to hold a real-time conversation, matching the functionality common in other leading instant messaging applications.
The goal The goal of this integration is to move towards a comprehensive platform where users can carry out all their management and communications without leaving the X ecosystem, something very much in line with Asian super applications such as WeChat.
Requirements and availability of audio and video calls on X
- Compatibility: Calls are available both in iOS as in Android, as long as the app is updated. In some cases, the rollout may be gradual and may take a few days to be operational for all users in a region.
- Requirements for making calls: Initially, only subscribed users of X Premium (formerly Twitter Blue) could initiate calls. However, after the latest updates, the feature is now available to all accountsIt's important to check with your own app, as calling capabilities may vary depending on the rollout phase.
- Requirements to receive calls: Any user can receive calls, regardless of whether you have a premium subscription or not, as long as you have configured call reception in the settings.
You can enable or disable audio and video calls from the settings. from your account in the mobile app, whether on iOS or Android.
How to activate audio and video calls on X step by step
- Open the X (Twitter) app on your mobile and make sure it is updated to its latest version.
- Click on your profile picture to access the side menu.
- Sign in Settings and privacy.
- Access the section Privacy & Security.
- Sign in Direct messages.
- Within that menu, locate the option Enable audio and video calls and use the switch to turn it on or off as you prefer.
Nota: If this option doesn't appear yet, it may be because the rollout hasn't been completed in your region or device. Keep your app updated and check this menu regularly.
Custom settings: Who can call you on X
Once calls are enabled, X allows you to precisely manage who can call youThis is essential to protect your privacy and avoid unwanted contact:
- People included in your address book: Only users saved in your phone's contacts will be able to call you if you've given the app permission to access your address book.
- Accounts you follow: Allow only accounts you follow to call you.
- verified users: Limit incoming calls to accounts with X Premium verification (blue check mark).
You can select one or more of these options depending on your comfort and safety level.
Privacy and Risks: What You Should Know Before Using X Calls
One of the most debated aspects of the calls in X is the privacyBy default, the call connection is set to mode P2P (peer-to-peer), which means that during a call you IP address could be visible to your interlocutorThis means your location and other personal data may be exposed.
To avoid this risk, X includes an option called “Enhanced Call Privacy”. If you enable this feature, the connection is made through the X servers and not directly, which prevents your IP from being visible to the other person.
- To activate enhanced call privacy:
- Accede to Configuration > Privacy & Security > Direct messages.
- Activate the option Enhanced Call Privacy.
Safety Recommendation: It's essential to enable this option if you're concerned about anonymity and protecting your personal data. Also, remember that you can completely disable the audio and video calling option if you don't need it.
How to make or receive an audio/video call on X?
- The Direct Messages tab (envelope icon), open a conversation with the person you want to contact.
- If you have both exchanged at least one direct message, a message will appear. phone icon in the upper right corner.
- Press the icon and select if you want a call from audio or video.
- The other person will receive a real-time notification of the incoming call.
Important: You will only be able to call contacts with whom you have previously had a conversation via direct messages. This adds a additional layer of security and prevents unwanted contact.
Disable calls on X: easy steps
If you prefer to avoid any possibility of incoming or outgoing calls, you can disable the feature completely by following these steps:
- Open the app and access Settings and privacy.
- Sign in Privacy & Security > Direct messages.
- Disable the option Enable audio and video calls by moving the corresponding switch.
This way, no one will be able to contact you via this method, keeping you isolated from possible unwanted calls.
What can you do during a call on X?
Calls in X offer basic and advanced options to manage real-time communication:
During an audio call:
- Activate or deactivate the speaker by touching the corresponding icon.
- Mute or unmute your microphone from the microphone icon.
- Hang up or end the call whenever you want.
During a video call:
- Switch between front and rear cameras by tapping the rotating camera icon.
- Mute your microphone or turn off the camera whenever you want.
- Turn the speaker on/off.
- End the call at any time.
Advantages and key features of X-calling
- Full integration within Direct Messages, without the need for external apps.
- advanced privacy as long as you activate the enhanced privacy option.
- Flexibility to choose who can contact you, helping to combat spam and unwanted contacts.
- Notifications in real time for incoming and missed calls.
Differences with other platforms and frequently asked questions
X's calls They do not have guaranteed end-to-end encryption, so privacy depends on the configuration and activation of server mode.
Furthermore, X differs from WhatsApp, Telegram or Instagram in that You need a previous contact by direct message before being able to call, reducing the possibility of random spam.
- Are there any additional costs for calls? No, they are completely free, unless the calling function is temporarily limited to X Premium users depending on the business model applied at the time.
- What happens if I don't answer a call? You will receive a missed call notification and the person who called you will be informed.
- Can I use this feature in X Web or desktop apps? For now, calls are only available on the mobile apps, both iOS and Android. The feature is expected to be extended to the browser version and possibly desktop versions in the future.
How to keep your experience safe and spam-free
The global rollout of this feature has received some criticism because the call function is activated by default on many accounts. This means that if you don't check your settings, you could receive unexpected or even unwanted calls.
We highly recommend set up immediately:
- The option of enhanced call privacy.
- Limit who can call you to trusted contacts.
- Turn off calls completely if you don't need them.
Global rollout and updates: what to expect from X in the future?
The evolution of X continues and the integration of functionalities such as payments, artificial intelligence, and voice and video services reinforces its commitment to being the central window to the Internet for millions of people.
Although in its early stages audio and video calls have been limited to select systems or premium accounts, The goal is to enable them for any user. Depending on monetization and development trends, there are likely to be new restrictions, improvements or adjustments that will expand and perfect these capabilities.
Adopting X calling is very simple if you follow the steps mentioned above and correctly configure your privacy and notification preferences. Take advantage of this feature to stay in touch with your followers, friends, and professional contacts without leaving the platform. Remember to review and update your security settings regularly to enjoy a protected and personalized experience in the X ecosystem, which is increasingly consolidating its position as the superapp of choice for digital communication.
