Threads DMs: Direct Messaging Now Available - Instagram Update

Instagram Threads Introduces Direct Messaging

Instagram Threads is now offering a highly anticipated feature: direct messaging (DMs). This allows users to communicate privately without needing to switch to the Instagram application.

The rollout of DMs begins globally on Tuesday, accompanied by a new feature called a highlighter, designed to showcase noteworthy content.

Initial DM Features

The initial version of Threads DMs provides core functionality. Users can engage in one-on-one conversations, utilize preset emoji reactions, report spam, and mute direct messages, mirroring features found on Instagram.

Further enhancements, such as group messaging, inbox filtering, and expanded message controls, are planned for future releases.

User Control and Limitations

Currently, blocking a follower or mutual connection directly within Threads is not possible. Blocking is only achievable on both Threads and Instagram simultaneously.

Controlling who can message you is determined by whether or not you follow the user.

Availability and Regional Restrictions

Direct messaging is available for users aged 18 and above in most regions where Threads operates. However, it is not yet accessible in Japan, Australia, the U.K., and the European Union.

Threads Competes with Other Platforms

The addition of DMs positions Threads as a stronger competitor to text-based social platforms like X and Bluesky. These platforms already offer direct and group messaging capabilities.

While X is developing encrypted direct messages, Threads has no current plans to implement end-to-end encryption for its private messaging feature.

Privacy Considerations

Emily Dalton Smith, Threads VP of Product, stated that encryption is not a priority. The focus is on facilitating immediate connections and discussions, which she believes makes encryption less essential to the user experience.

The intention is for DMs to complement the existing public community on Threads, fostering a distinct network separate from Instagram.

Building a Unique User Network

Threads is witnessing the development of a unique user network. Over a third of daily Threads users have a limited overlap—less than 50%—between their Instagram and Threads connections.

Meta highlights a divergence in purpose: Instagram is geared towards creativity, while Threads is focused on sharing perspectives.

Users are also following different individuals and participating in varied conversations on each platform.

Exploring Account Flexibility

Due to this growing separation, Meta is exploring options for using Threads without requiring an Instagram account.

Testing includes login via Facebook (in Europe) and the creation of Threads-only accounts. Accessing Threads from the web without logging in is also being tested.

The Threads Creator Community

The Threads creator community is evolving, with some individuals gaining prominence specifically on the platform. David Rushing, who cultivated the NBA Threads community, serves as an example.

Threads aims to improve the discoverability of such communities, making it a key focus for future development.

Enhancing Community Discovery

Threads initially introduced tags to categorize conversations. Subsequently, topic feeds were created to aggregate discussions around specific interests.

The current emphasis is on identifying and highlighting active contributors within these communities.

Over the coming months, Threads expects to provide more user suggestions in search and recommendations.

The New Highlighter Feature

The new highlighter feature will initially showcase trending topics related to content in the For You feed.

In the future, it could highlight perspectives from users or active conversations within topic feeds.

Monetization and Future Plans

Currently, Meta has no plans to monetize Threads beyond advertising.

While an AI feature similar to xAI’s Grok could be considered, the immediate focus is on optimizing ad performance and utilizing AI to enhance features like trending topic summaries.

The team remains open to exploring AI features in the future, prioritizing community feedback and the app’s growth.

Threads’ Growing User Base

Threads boasts 350 million monthly active users, surpassing newer platforms like Bluesky (37 million registered users).

However, compared to Meta’s other apps with billions of users, Threads still has significant growth potential.

The DM feature was initially tested in Hong Kong, Thailand, Argentina, and Brazil before the global launch.