The wait is over for threads users. Meta has officially rolled out native direct messaging (DM) capabilities directly within the Threads app. This highly anticipated feature arrives nearly two years after the platform’s initial launch, fulfilling a top request from its growing user base. The move signals a significant evolution for Threads, further positioning it as a standalone platform rather than just an extension of Instagram.
The Two-Year Wait for Threads Messaging Ends
When Meta launched Threads in July 2023, it was primarily a text-based companion to Instagram. Private conversations weren’t built into the app. Instead, users were initially directed back to Instagram’s existing direct messaging system. This approach was based on an early assumption that user connections would largely overlap between the two platforms. However, that assumption proved incorrect as Threads began cultivating its own distinct community. Users quickly voiced their desire for a dedicated, in-app messaging feature, making it the number one most requested addition since launch, according to Head of Product Emily Dalton Smith. After a testing period in select regions including Hong Kong, Thailand, and Argentina, Meta is now making this core functionality available to everyone over 18.
How Threads DMs Work Right Now
The new direct messaging feature is accessible via a dedicated tab within the Threads app, typically represented by an envelope icon. Tapping this icon opens a dedicated inbox where users can manage conversations. Initially, there are a few limitations on who you can message. Users can send DMs only to individuals who already follow them on Threads or are mutual followers originating from Instagram. Messages are one-to-one conversations; group messaging is not supported in this initial rollout, although Meta states it’s a planned future addition. Importantly, Meta has also indicated these messages are currently not encrypted, with no immediate plans to add encryption. For users over 18, this new inbox provides a much more convenient way to connect privately compared to the previous method of leaving the app to use Instagram DMs.
Why Meta Pivoted on In-App Messaging
Meta executives, including Instagram head Adam Mosseri, were initially hesitant to bring DMs to Threads. Their concern in 2023 was creating redundant message threads across two apps for the same connections. However, Threads’ remarkable growth has altered this perspective. The platform now boasts over 350 million users. Data shows that more than a third of daily Threads users are following accounts on Threads that are largely different from their Instagram follows. This demonstrated formation of distinct “interest graphs” and connections proved the need for integrated communication within the Threads environment itself. The intense user demand, coupled with this clear evidence of a unique user base, ultimately drove Meta to invest in building native direct messages.
Threads Evolves: Competing Directly with X
The introduction of native DMs is more than just adding a requested feature; it’s a strategic statement. Two years in, Meta is explicitly positioning Threads as a direct alternative to X (formerly Twitter). While earlier rhetoric downplayed competing with X, Meta has since walked back its prohibition on recommending political content and launched features aimed at helping users find creators they know from X. The platform is also leaning into real-time conversation and news. Recent updates have made trending topics more prominent and surfaced more links in feeds, alongside a new “highlighter” feature making trends even more visible. Adding direct, private messaging capabilities is a fundamental component expected of any platform aiming to be the primary “digital town square” for public and private discourse, directly challenging X’s long-held position. This shift is also seen in changes like allowing users to delete their Threads account independently of Instagram.
Lingering Questions and Future Plans
Despite the welcome arrival of DMs, the delay has led some observers to question Meta’s initial commitment and pace of development for Threads. Some analysts felt the app felt “incomplete” without this basic functionality. While the new inbox offers a dedicated space, Threads’ deep underlying integration with Instagram for login and follower syncing still exists, leading some to question its true independence. Looking ahead, Meta plans to add more customizable inbox controls and the highly anticipated group chat functionality. They also intend to allow users to receive messages from people they don’t follow, likely routed into a ‘message requests’ folder similar to Instagram’s system. These planned updates suggest Meta is committed to building out the Threads messaging experience further, aiming to make it a robust communication tool within the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did it take Threads two years to add DMs?
Meta initially hesitated to add direct messages to Threads due to concerns about duplicating message threads across Threads and Instagram, believing user connections would heavily overlap. However, over two years, Threads developed a distinct user base with different connections than Instagram. Coupled with overwhelming user demand, this shift proved the necessity for native DMs within the Threads app.
How do I use direct messaging on Meta’s Threads platform?
Once the feature is rolled out to your account (currently for users aged 18+), you will find a dedicated messaging tab or envelope icon within the Threads app interface. Tapping this icon will open your Threads inbox, allowing you to start one-on-one private conversations with users who follow you or are mutual followers from Instagram. Future updates are planned to expand functionality.
What are the current limitations of Threads direct messages?
In the initial rollout, Threads DMs have several limitations. Messaging is restricted to users aged 18 and above. You can only send messages to users who follow you or are mutual Instagram followers. Group messaging is not available yet but is planned for a future update. Additionally, messages are currently not encrypted, and Meta has stated there are no immediate plans to add encryption.
Conclusion
The official launch of native direct messages on Meta’s Threads marks a pivotal moment for the platform. After a long wait, this essential feature is now rolling out to users, enhancing Threads’ functionality and user experience. By integrating private communication, Meta strengthens Threads’ position as a more complete, standalone social media platform capable of competing head-on with rivals like X. While initial limitations exist, planned future updates suggest Meta is invested in developing Threads messaging further, reinforcing its commitment to the app’s growth and distinct identity in the social media landscape.
