Meta has officially launched direct messages (DMs) on Threads, two years post-launch. This feature allows users to engage in private messaging with mutual followers, marking a pivotal shift in the app's functionality . Initially hesitant to integrate DMs, Meta's decision reflects an evolving strategy aimed at positioning Threads as a viable alternative to X. The introduction of DMs is accompanied by features such as preset emoji reactions and spam reporting, although limitations remain, including the absence of group messaging capabilities .
The latter will emphasize interesting perspectives and conversations, Meta says, starting with Trending Topics.
Threads DMs offer a basic set of features. They’ll support one-on-one chats, preset emoji reactions, the ability to report spam, and mute DMs (as on Instagram). Other features, like group messaging, inbox filters, and more advanced message controls, will arrive in a later release.
That means today, you can’t block a follower or mutual from messaging you — you can only block them on Threads, which will also block them on Instagram. To control who can message you, you have to choose whether or not you follow the user.
Adam Mosseri explained his thinking in 2023, noting that "two redundant message threads with each of your friends with the same handles in two different apps" seemed like a less than ideal solution. But that position has made less and less sense as Threads has grown to more than 350 million users. "More than a third of daily Threads users with connections follow mostly different accounts on Threads than on Instagram, showing that Threads is establishing its own unique user base," Meta notes in a blog post.
Threads was created for sharing perspectives that generate vibrant, public conversations, but sometimes you want to take a conversation further, one-on-one. Messaging has been one of the top requested features, and now, you can easily continue conversations in the app and deepen relationships with others. 
The rollout of DMs signifies a broader attempt by Meta to distance Threads from Instagram while enhancing user experience. Notably, the lack of encryption for these messages has raised concerns regarding privacy and security . Despite these apprehensions, the ability to communicate directly within Threads may foster deeper connections among users and encourage engagement on the platform. As Meta continues to refine its offerings, it remains crucial for the company to address user privacy expectations while expanding Threads' functionalities.
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