Threads Introduces DM Inbox, Further Distancing from Instagram
▼ Summary
– Instagram Threads is introducing direct messaging (DMs), allowing users to chat without switching apps, alongside a new “highlighter” feature to emphasize trending topics.
– Threads DMs initially support one-on-one chats, preset emoji reactions, spam reporting, and mute options, with group messaging and advanced controls planned for future updates.
– DMs are available for users 18+ in most markets, excluding Japan, Australia, the U.K., and the EU, and Threads will not encrypt its messaging feature.
– Threads users are building distinct social and interest graphs separate from Instagram, with over a third having less than 50% overlap in connections between the two platforms.
– Meta is testing Threads-only accounts and web access without login, while focusing on community discovery and ads, with no immediate plans for monetization beyond advertising.
Threads has taken a major step toward becoming a standalone platform by introducing direct messaging, marking its biggest divergence from Instagram yet. The highly anticipated feature allows users to send private messages without leaving the app, eliminating the need to switch between Threads and Instagram. Starting this week, the rollout begins globally, accompanied by a new “highlighter” tool designed to spotlight trending discussions and noteworthy viewpoints.
Initially, the DM functionality will be fairly basic, supporting individual conversations, preset emoji reactions, spam reporting, and message muting. More advanced options, such as group chats and inbox filters, are slated for future updates. Notably, users can’t currently block someone from messaging them directly unless they block the account entirely, which also applies to Instagram due to the interconnected nature of Meta’s platforms.
Age and regional restrictions apply: The feature is limited to users 18 and older in most available markets, excluding Japan, Australia, the U.K., and the EU. This move positions Threads more competitively against rivals like X and Bluesky, where private and group messaging are already integral. Unlike X, however, Threads has no plans to encrypt DMs. Emily Dalton Smith, Threads’ VP of Product, emphasized that the focus is on fostering real-time conversations rather than security.
The platform’s evolution highlights its growing independence from Instagram. Data reveals that over a third of daily Threads users have less than 50% overlap between their Instagram and Threads connections. Smith noted that while Instagram thrives on creativity, Threads is carving out a niche for diverse perspectives and interest-based communities.
To further distinguish itself, Meta is experimenting with ways to use Threads without an Instagram account, including Facebook logins in Europe and standalone Threads profiles. The company is also exploring web access without mandatory logins.
Community building remains a priority. Threads has already introduced tags and topic-specific feeds to organize discussions. The next phase involves spotlighting active contributors within these communities, with plans to enhance user recommendations in search results. The new highlighter feature will initially spotlight trending topics but may later surface engaging conversations or standout users.
Monetization remains focused on ads for now, with no immediate plans for premium AI integrations like X’s Grok. Instead, Meta is refining ad delivery while leveraging AI behind the scenes, for tasks like summarizing trending topics.
Despite its rapid growth to 350 million monthly users, Threads still operates in the shadow of Meta’s larger platforms. The DM launch follows successful tests in select markets, including Hong Kong and Brazil, signaling Meta’s commitment to making Threads a key player in the social media landscape.
(Source: TechCrunch)
