Threads Introduces Native Direct Messaging as It Distances from Instagram

TL;DR:

• Meta’s Threads app launches direct messages (DMs) globally, enabling users to chat without switching to Instagram.
  
• Initial DM features include one-on-one chats, emoji reactions, spam reporting, and mute options; group chats and advanced controls to come later.
  
• Threads DMs are not end-to-end encrypted, focusing instead on real-time conversation and community building.
  
• Threads is evolving as a distinct platform with a unique interest graph different from Instagram’s social graph.
  
• Meta is testing options for Threads-only accounts and web access without Instagram login.
  

Threads Launches Built-In Messaging for Seamless Communication

Instagram’s sibling app, Threads, has officially launched its most requested feature: a direct messaging inbox integrated directly into the app. This addition eliminates the need to switch back and forth to Instagram to send or receive private messages.

Starting Tuesday, users worldwide (excluding Japan, Australia, the U.K., and the EU) can access one-on-one DMs, send emoji reactions, mute conversations, and report spam messages. More advanced functionalities like group chats and inbox filters will be rolled out in future updates.

What’s Missing? Privacy and Control Limitations

Unlike many modern messaging apps, Threads does not encrypt its DMs, according to Emily Dalton Smith, VP of Product at Threads. The focus is on immediacy and openness within conversations rather than privacy.

Users cannot currently block specific followers or mutual connections from messaging them—blocking is global and affects both Threads and Instagram. To control who can DM them, users must adjust their following list.

Building a Separate Identity From Instagram

Although Threads initially built upon Instagram’s social graph, it is quickly developing its own unique network. Meta reports that over one-third of daily Threads users have less than a 50% overlap between their Instagram and Threads connections, highlighting divergent user communities.

Smith described Instagram as a platform focused on creativity, whereas Threads emphasizes perspectives and conversations. This distinction is reflected in the content and user interactions on each platform.

New Features to Boost Community Engagement

Threads recently introduced tags (hashtags without the # symbol) and topic feeds to organize conversations. Moving forward, Threads plans to spotlight active contributors and communities, helping users discover relevant conversations and personalities more easily.

The new highlighter feature emphasizes trending topics and interesting perspectives within users’ feeds, with potential future uses including highlighting conversations and community leaders.

Testing Threads-Only Accounts and Web Access

To further separate Threads from Instagram, Meta is experimenting with the ability to create Threads-only accounts, allowing users to join without Instagram. This is currently being tested in Europe via Facebook login and includes plans for web-based access without a login requirement.

Competitive Positioning and Monetization Plans

Threads’ DM feature positions it closer to competitors like X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky, which offer direct and group messaging options. However, Threads currently lacks some privacy features present in rivals.

Meta confirmed no immediate plans to monetize Threads beyond ads, although AI-driven enhancements may be introduced in the future based on community feedback.

Threads User Metrics & Features

Looking Ahead

With 350 million monthly active users, Threads is already a significant player in social media but is carving out its own identity separate from Instagram. The launch of native direct messaging is a major milestone that will likely increase user engagement and retention.

As Meta tests new login methods and web access, the platform’s independence and reach may continue to grow, making Threads a compelling alternative for text-based social interactions.