Amid various controversies, X continues to roll out updates, with the DM editing feature launched for iOS users over the weekend.

"Edit DMs now available on iOS! Download the latest app to access the feature. Other platforms coming soon," tweeted Mike, the engineering lead at X.

As highlighted in the post, iOS users now have the ability to edit their direct messages, aligning X’s DM functionalities more closely with other messaging platforms. However, it still lags behind in one critical area, especially considering X's emphasis on free speech and privacy. Despite Elon Musk's commitment to making encryption the default for all DMs, this feature has yet to be fully implemented.

Currently, verified users can enable encryption for their messages, but Musk himself has described the existing system as “clunky.” In contrast, audio and video calls are encrypted by default.

This delay in rollout isn't surprising, given Musk's reduction of the company’s workforce by about 80%, which naturally affects project timelines. Recently, the frequency of significant updates from X has noticeably decreased as the platform works to incorporate new features and align with Elon’s vision of an "everything app."

In the past couple of months, X has introduced updates at a steady pace, but the notable features include:

- Video conference calls
- Post reply sorting options
- Auto-advance mode for video viewing
- Enhanced analytics tools

While these updates offer utility, none are particularly revolutionary or likely to significantly boost user interest in the app. While Musk aims to integrate more features, the availability of half-finished tools that can be found in other applications may not be the most effective strategy for increasing X’s user base at this time.

Additionally, X has been working on improving its Grok AI chatbot, which now includes image creation capabilities, and is developing payment options within the app. The platform is also revamping its user interface, which will hide like and comment counts from the main feed view.

There are some substantial updates in progress, but the pace of innovation has inevitably slowed due to the staffing changes.

While X is still innovating more than Twitter ever did—a longstanding critique of the platform—it’s possible that these additional functionalities could gradually encourage more users to engage with X for a broader array of purposes.

However, it appears that X is primarily playing catch-up in many areas, and the alternatives it’s offering often fall short compared to competitors. 

Perhaps that doesn’t necessarily matter, and features like DM editing could prompt more users to take advantage of X’s messaging capabilities, even in the absence of default encryption.

I’m skeptical about that, but regardless, the ability to edit DMs is now available!