Archive · 2 Jul 2025
Threads Adds Direct Messaging, Testing New Features
Threads, the text-based app by Meta, now has direct messaging.
People 18 and older can send private messages to those they follow and who follow them back.
These messages will not be end-to-end encrypted, meaning Meta can see them.
The feature isn't available everywhere, like in Europe.
Threads is also adding a 'Highlighter' feature to highlight engaging posts.
Meta is testing more options to log into Threads, including using Facebook and allowing users to view content on the web without an account.
Meta launches direct messaging on Threads, a standalone text-based social platform.
Users aged 18+ can now send DMs to mutual followers, using emoji reactions and muting.
DMs lack end-to-end encryption and are unavailable in certain regions, including the EU.
Meta is also rolling out a new visual feature called Highlighter to promote engaging content.
Testing includes increased account flexibility with Facebook login options and web browsing.
- Who
- Meta and Threads users
- What
- Meta is rolling out direct messaging on Threads.
- When
- Starting this week
- Where
- On the Threads app
- Why
- To enable private conversations on the platform.
Privacy Concerns
Company Response
Encryption
Privacy Concerns
Users are concerned about the lack of end-to-end encryption for direct messages, which raises privacy concerns.
Company Response
Meta aims to improve Threads based on community feedback.
- Feature
- Direct Messaging
- Age Restriction
- 18+
- Encryption
- Not End-to-End
- Available Regions
- Not available in certain regions including Japan, Australia, the UK, and the European Union
- New Feature
- Highlighter