TechCapsules

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Instagram Threads, a social media app, has announced the rollout of its most requested feature to date: direct messaging (DMs) that allow users to communicate with each other directly within the app, eliminating the need to switch to another app like Instagram. The rollout of DMs is set to begin on Tuesday and will be available globally. Alongside the DM feature, a new visual element called Highlighter will be introduced, which is designed to emphasize interesting perspectives and conversations on Threads. Initially, Highlighter will focus on Trending Topics. At launch, the DM feature on Threads will offer a basic set of features, including one-on-one chats, preset emoji reactions, the ability to report spam, and the option to mute DMs. Other features, such as group messaging, inbox filters, and more advanced message controls, are expected to be added in a later release. One notable limitation of the current DM feature is the inability to block a follower or mutual from messaging you on Threads only. To control who can message you, you need to choose whether or not to follow the user. Once you block someone on Threads, it will also block them on Instagram. The DM feature will be available to users aged 18 and above in most markets where Threads is available, excluding Japan, Australia, the U.K., and the EU. The introduction of DMs on Threads makes the app more competitive with other text-first social apps like X and Bluesky, which allow users to engage with each other directly or in group chats. With this update, Threads is taking another step away from its parent app, Instagram, and solidifying its position as a standalone social media platform.