You’ll soon have the option to use X primarily as a messaging platform, even if you choose not to engage with other features on the app.

Currently, while you can already do this to some extent, X is looking to create a clearer separation between its DM functionality and public posting.

As part of Elon Musk’s vision for an “everything app,” X is working on a significant update to decouple DMs from other in-app activities. App researcher Nima Owji recently uncovered new code that hints at this change, indicating that users will be able to have distinct messaging experiences.

BREAKING: X is developing a SEPARATE BLOCK button for DMs!

You’ll soon be able to block messages from someone without having to block them from your account entirely! pic.twitter.com/COlXYbwRWu

— Nima Owji (@nima_owji) September 11, 2024

This means you could block someone from messaging you while still being able to view their public posts.

In response to this discovery, Musk clarified that the goal is to enable users to utilize the platform purely for messaging, without the necessity of public posting. While this functionality is theoretically possible now, the idea is to enhance the user experience for those who prefer messaging without other distractions.

However, I see a significant flaw in many of these proposed features. They seem to lack compelling reasons for users to switch from their established habits, primarily driven by Elon’s agenda for creating a “free speech” platform.

For example, X has launched original video content that doesn't yet resonate with a broad audience. Additionally, while virtual meet-ups on X are an option, they don’t compete with the functionality of established platforms like Zoom or Google Meet. Users would essentially be downgrading their experience by switching.

There’s also talk of integrating payment options within X, but again, why would users choose this over existing solutions?

The ambition behind the “everything app” vision is clear: to consolidate daily activities into a single platform. Yet, without significant incentives—like enhanced features that genuinely outperform alternatives—it's unclear why users would make the switch.

Habitual behaviors are tough to change, and X’s efforts seem to presume that people will adopt new features simply because they’re available. However, if those features don’t offer real value or improvement, I doubt they will gain traction.

In summary, while X is exploring various new functionalities, none of them currently surpass the existing options users are comfortable with. So yes, you may soon be able to use X primarily for messaging, but will that truly attract users?