At just under five years old, X Æ A-Xii, affectionately known as “Lil X,” is already capturing the world’s attention, not only as the son of tech billionaire Elon Musk but also for displaying remarkable potential in technology and gaming. Born in May 2020 to Musk and Canadian musician Grimes, Lil X has become a familiar figure at high-profile events, from SpaceX launches to Oval Office briefings. Recent reports and social media posts highlight his budding interest in technology and impressive gaming skills, drawing comparisons to his father, who coded his first video game at age 12. This article explores Lil X’s early talents, his exposure to technology, and the implications of growing up under the influence of one of the world’s most innovative minds.

A Child in the Spotlight

Lil X has been a near-constant companion to his father at major events, from meetings with world leaders to Tesla factory tours. His public appearances, such as the February 2025 Oval Office press conference alongside President Donald Trump, have sparked both admiration and controversy. During that event, the four-year-old was seen mimicking his father’s gestures, whispering to Trump, and even playfully telling the press to “shhh,” earning him the nickname “emotional support human” from Musk himself. These moments have endeared him to many, with social media users praising his charisma and confidence.

However, Lil X’s frequent presence at such events has also drawn criticism. His mother, Grimes, expressed concern over his exposure, stating on X in February 2025, “He should not be in public like this. I did not see this, thank u for alerting me. But I’m glad he was polite. Sigh.” Despite the debate, these appearances have provided glimpses into Lil X’s personality and interests, revealing a child who is curious, bold, and increasingly drawn to the world of technology.

Early Signs of Technological Interest

Elon Musk’s own childhood was marked by a deep fascination with computing and video games. At age 10, he taught himself to program using a VIC-20 computer manual, and by 12, he sold his BASIC-based game Blastar for $500. Lil X appears to be following a similar path. While specific details about his activities are limited due to his age and privacy concerns, posts on X and media reports suggest he is already engaging with technology in ways that echo his father’s early years.

In June 2025, a user on X shared a video of Lil X and Musk presenting at a Starship event, where the four-year-old opened the presentation with a cheerful “Hi,” delighting the audience. While the moment was lighthearted, it underscored Lil X’s comfort in tech-centric environments. Sources close to Musk, cited in a February 2025 BBC article, note that Lil X often accompanies his father to SpaceX control rooms and Tesla facilities, where he is exposed to cutting-edge technology. These experiences, combined with Musk’s hands-on parenting style, are likely fostering an early interest in science and innovation.

Musk’s biographer, Walter Isaacson, has described the billionaire as “deeply committed” to his children, often integrating them into his work life. For Lil X, this means regular exposure to environments where artificial intelligence, space exploration, and electric vehicles are discussed. While it’s too early to predict whether he will pursue a career in technology, his familiarity with these settings suggests a foundation for future exploration.

A Prodigy at Play: Gaming Talent

One area where Lil X is reportedly excelling is video gaming. Posts on X and anecdotal reports from media outlets indicate that he has developed impressive skills for his age. A March 2025 article from India Today highlighted a viral video where Lil X, then four, engaged in a conversation with Musk about “saving America” and “helping Trump.” While the clip focused on his precocious dialogue, users on X commented on his dexterity with digital devices, noting that he navigates tablets and gaming consoles with ease.

Gaming is a natural entry point for children into technology, and Lil X’s proficiency suggests both natural talent and an environment that encourages digital exploration. Musk, who has spoken fondly of his own childhood gaming experiences, likely provides access to age-appropriate games that stimulate problem-solving and creativity. In a 2023 biography, Isaacson noted Musk’s belief that gaming can sharpen cognitive skills, a view that may influence how Lil X engages with technology.

While specific games Lil X plays remain private, educational games like Minecraft or Roblox, which promote coding and creative thinking, are popular among young children and could be part of his repertoire. These platforms align with Musk’s philosophy of fostering innovation through play, as evidenced by his support for initiatives like Neuralink, which explores brain-computer interfaces for gaming. Lil X’s early gaming prowess, while not yet at a professional level, hints at a potential to follow in his father’s footsteps as a tech-savvy innovator.

Growing Up Musk: Opportunities and Challenges

Being the son of Elon Musk comes with unique opportunities and pressures. Musk’s wealth—estimated at $381 billion in May 2025—and his leadership of companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and X provide Lil X with unparalleled access to resources. In October 2024, Musk purchased a 14,400-square-foot mansion in Austin, Texas, for his children, along with adjacent properties for their mothers, ensuring a supportive environment for Lil X and his siblings.

However, the public scrutiny that accompanies Musk’s fame poses challenges. Lil X’s mother, Grimes, has voiced concerns about his high-profile appearances, reflecting ongoing tensions between Musk’s desire to involve his children in his work and her preference for privacy. Additionally, Musk’s controversial public persona, including his political activities and pronatalist views, may shape how Lil X is perceived as he grows older.

Musk’s pronatalism—his belief in addressing population decline through large families—has been a topic of discussion, with Lil X often cited as a symbol of this philosophy. While Musk sees his children as part of a mission to sustain civilization, critics argue that his public displays of fatherhood, such as bringing Lil X to the Oval Office, are strategic efforts to humanize his image. For Lil X, this means navigating a world where his actions are interpreted through the lens of his father’s legacy.

Comparisons to Elon Musk: Nature or Nurture?

The parallels between Lil X and his father are striking but raise questions about whether his talents stem from genetics, environment, or both. Musk’s own childhood was marked by intellectual curiosity and resilience, despite a challenging relationship with his father, Errol. Lil X, by contrast, benefits from a nurturing environment where technology is omnipresent. His interactions with Musk, described as playful and engaged, suggest a strong father-son bond that encourages exploration.

Experts cited in a February 2025 India Today article suggest that Musk’s decision to bring Lil X to meetings may reflect a desire to mentor him as an “heir apparent.” However, it’s too early to label Lil X a prodigy. Child development specialists emphasize that early interests in technology and gaming are common among children exposed to digital devices, but sustained talent requires guidance and discipline. Lil X’s potential will depend on how his parents balance encouragement with autonomy, allowing him to carve his own path.

The Future for Lil X

As Lil X approaches his fifth birthday, his fascination with technology and gaming is a promising sign of potential, but his journey is just beginning. Whether he follows his father into the tech industry or pursues a different passion, his early exposure to innovation gives him a head start. Musk’s vision for his children, as expressed in a 2024 interview, is to inspire them to “do great things in technology,” a goal Lil X seems poised to explore.

For now, Lil X remains a charming figure whose antics—like announcing “Please forgive me, I need to pee” during a White House briefing—capture hearts worldwide. His gaming skills and tech curiosity, while impressive for his age, are nurtured by an environment rich with opportunity. As he grows, the world will watch to see if he inherits not only his father’s talents but also his drive to reshape the future.