X's Upcoming Video Conferencing Feature: What We Know So Far
X is on the verge of introducing a new video conferencing feature, aiming to provide functionality similar to Zoom directly within the X app.
X's Conference Call Feature
As demonstrated by X engineer Chris Park, the company has developed a working version of its video conferencing platform. Elon Musk, the owner of X, has indicated that they are already using this feature for internal meetings.
The new conference call option will be available on the right-hand side function bar under "Conferences." Once active, it will allow participants to engage in full video streaming.
Participant Limitations and Potential Upgrades
While details on how many participants will be displayed on screen haven't been revealed, X’s existing video calling feature, which has been available to users since February, is more limited compared to other apps. It's likely that X’s conference calls will initially support up to four participants on screen. However, the company may increase this limit to better compete with Zoom and similar platforms.
A Step Towards the "Everything App"
This update is part of Elon Musk’s broader vision to transform X into an “everything app,” a platform that caters to all interactive and transactional needs. When X's audio and video calling functionality became available in February, Musk even mentioned he would no longer need a phone number, as X could fulfill all his telecommunication needs.
Challenges in Adoption
Despite these updates, basic functionality alone may not be enough to increase reliance on X. While Elon Musk has grand ambitions for the app, the challenge remains that not everyone sees the same value in these tools. For instance, although X can replace your phone for communication, it’s unlikely that many people are ready to abandon their devices for it. After all, phones offer a range of functionalities, including access to X, making the integrated feature less compelling.
Future Additions: Payments and Banking
Musk is also interested in adding payment and banking services to X. However, people already have trusted options for these services and may be hesitant to switch to a potentially less secure and reliable offering within X.
Long-Form Content and Revenue Dilution
X now allows long-form articles to be posted, but this could dilute revenue for users who might earn more from other platforms, such as personal blogs or mailing lists.
Is X Ready to Compete?
For X to become a crucial tool for millions, it will need to offer more compelling reasons to switch from existing apps and services. At this point, X's features are not significantly better, cheaper, or more functional than what’s already available.
The Big Questions
Ultimately, the success of X’s broader project hinges on two key questions: Can Elon Musk truly create the “everything app” he envisions? And if he can, will people actually use it?
X’s new conference calling feature may provide a basic alternative to Zoom or Google Meet, but with established tools already available, it remains to be seen if X can offer something better. For now, it's another option within X, especially for those who already do a lot of their work on the platform.
