X will eliminate direct messages to create its own messaging platform.

      X, previously known as Twitter, is planning to replace the DMs section with a new messaging feature called XChat.

      Zack Warunek, a software engineer at X, suggested that the company would be removing the DMs section on Wednesday in response to a user's trouble accessing their message data from recent days, which they thought was due to a bug. When the user asked Warunek if he could rectify the issue, he replied, “This page will be deleted soon, so no.” In response to a question about message requests’ future status, Warunek stated, “No, not like request messages, but the entire DMs will be gone soon.”

      This exchange implies that X will soon be introducing XChat. The new messaging platform will be an enhancement of X’s existing DMs, designed similarly to Facebook Messenger but offering additional features aimed at enhancing privacy in conversations. An analyst at MacRumors indicated that XChat will enable users to send PDFs and various files, delete messages for all chat participants—not just for themselves—and incorporate a Vanishing mode, akin to Instagram’s feature in its DMs. Moreover, messages exchanged via XChat will be completely encrypted.

      Nima Owji, an independent web developer, shared a preview screenshot last week showing how XChat will allow users to select between deleting messages for everyone in the chat or just for themselves. The screenshot also displayed an option to input a PIN code every time XChat is accessed to bolster security.

      Elon Musk hinted at XChat's development last year when he mentioned on Twitter that he would stop using his phone number and only operate through X for texting and calling. In January, X Daily News reported that the platform was working on the new messaging service, suggesting Musk aimed to challenge WhatsApp by expanding X’s DMs.

      Another X employee clarified that XChat represents a reworking of the platform's DMs, indicating they are not entirely eliminating DMs. The exact launch date for XChat on X remains uncertain, but rumors suggest it may become available in the near future.

      Cristina Alexander is a gaming and mobile writer at Digital Trends, covering various gaming industry topics…

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      Apple is aiming for user emails to improve its struggling AI.

      Apple’s AI initiatives haven't achieved the same level of impact as those from Google’s Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, or OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The company's AI framework, known as Apple Intelligence, has not significantly benefited iPhone and Mac users, even leading to an internal management upheaval.

      It appears that user data could be the solution. Earlier today, the company released a Machine Learning research paper illustrating a novel method for training its onboard AI using data stored on iPhones, beginning with emails. These emails will serve to enhance features such as email summarization and writing tools.

      Honor is leveraging AI to enhance your smartphone photography.

      Honor has unveiled a range of AI-driven updates in collaboration with Google Cloud. Highlights include AI Outpainting, an AI eraser, and a sneak peek of its forthcoming product line, set to launch next month.

      Among the announcements, AI Outpainting appears to be the most significant. This tool, reminiscent of Photoshop's Generative Expand, promises to simplify the photo framing process, as AI can effectively fill in the gaps.