Threads Now Lets You Chat Privately with DMs; Here's How

Meta has officially launched direct messaging (DM) capabilities within its microblogging app, Threads, enhancing the platform’s communication tools with private, one-on-one messaging. The update is available to all users aged 18 and older, aligning with the company’s strategy to support both public engagement and private connections.

Users can now initiate DMs by navigating to another user’s profile and tapping the message icon. Currently, messaging is restricted to followers or mutual followers from Instagram, ensuring a degree of familiarity and safety. Meta has confirmed that this is the initial stage of the rollout, with broader features expected soon.

Meta plans to expand Threads’ messaging capabilities with several upcoming features:

* Message Access Controls: Allow users to regulate who can contact them and manage incoming message requests.

* Group Conversations: Enable discussions among multiple participants within the same thread.

* Inbox Organization Tools: Provide filters to sort and prioritize messages for easier inbox navigation.

The DM feature launches as Threads marks its two-year anniversary. Meta highlighted that more than one-third of Threads’ daily users follow different accounts than they do on Instagram, indicating that a distinct user community is evolving on the platform.

In addition to private messaging, Meta introduced the "Threads Highlighter," a discovery feature designed to surface popular discussions and active topics. The Highlighter will be displayed in key discovery sections to help users identify content generating high engagement.

According to Meta, the Highlighter is intended to promote unique voices and support diverse conversations.