X appears to be planning an expansion of its upcoming financial platform, X Money, into the realm of physical payments. Recent updates in the X app reveal various embedded references to a tangible debit card option, suggestive of forthcoming features. According to code examined by mobile app intelligence provider App Sensa, users may soon have access to physical debit cards customizable with their X usernames.
The app’s internal code contains explicit references to numerous debit card-related activities, including card activation, shipping status checks, PIN management, and security functionalities such as card locking or reporting a card lost or stolen. Additionally, terms like “physical_card_option” indicate clearly that physical debit cards are integral to X’s future plans.
Earlier in January, X CEO Linda Yaccarino formally introduced Visa as the initial partner for X Money, outlining a platform that allows app users instant funding through Visa Direct, seamless peer-to-peer payments via linked debit cards, and rapid transfers to traditional banking accounts. Yaccarino hinted at further announcements throughout the year, suggesting ambitious positioning against rival digital banks and fintech services.
X has steadily built its financial credentials in recent months, securing money transmitter licenses across the U.S. Originally licensed in December 2023 across a dozen states, it has since expanded coverage significantly, receiving regulatory approvals now spanning 40 states and Washington D.C.
Further exploration of the app’s updated code suggests additional financial services are forthcoming. Features such as cashback incentives and “deferred debit” payment methods appear likely options. The code also implies consumers might independently manage virtual and physical card options, with separate cancellation functionality. Moreover, App Sensa’s analysis indicates potential relationships with additional major payment providers, notably Mastercard and American Express.
This initiative aligns with owner Elon Musk’s historical ambitions. Since rebranding Twitter as X in 2023, Musk has spoken publicly about evolving the platform into an expansive “everything app,” integrating banking, payments, and enhanced multimedia experiences into its core offerings. Musk’s longstanding fascination with digital payments traces back to his original co-founding of X.com, which subsequently evolved into PayPal.
While X has indicated plans to make a more detailed announcement about X Money later this year, no specific timeline has yet been provided, and representatives from X have declined requests for comment at this time.
