Meta, the parent company of popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has been exploring the addition of messaging features to its Threads app. Initially hesitant about integrating messaging options, Meta’s Threads team is now reportedly developing an in-stream direct messaging (DM) option. This move is aimed at aligning Threads more closely with other social apps like Twitter.
Data privacy researcher Jorge Caballero has noted the incorporation of new data strings in the Threads app that seem to relate to DMs. These DMs are expected to be encrypted, giving users the ability to send self-destructing messages if they choose. This aligns Threads with Meta’s other messaging tools, with a focus on encryption and interoperability.
Meta has been working on integrating its messaging tools since 2019, intending to merge all DMs from Messenger, Instagram Direct, and WhatsApp into a single, interoperable inbox accessible across any app. This interoperability will allow users to view and send messages seamlessly across different platforms, enhancing user convenience.
Initially, Meta seemed inclined to keep DMs within its existing systems to avoid complicating the integration process. However, the demand for DMs on Threads from users has prompted a reevaluation of this decision. Threads aims to cater to user requests and potentially position itself as a rival to Twitter by adding essential features like DMs, editing capabilities, Trending Topics, voice notes, and more.
Recent data shows an upswing in Threads’ popularity, particularly in the UK, following changes in another social media platform’s format and ongoing concerns about its direction. Threads climbed the download charts, indicating a growing user base and increased interest.
While there has been no official confirmation from Meta yet, it appears that Threads is gaining traction and could potentially become a genuine rival to established platforms, especially with the addition of DMs. The ongoing developments will be closely monitored to assess how Threads continues to evolve and influence the social media landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates on Threads and its progress towards becoming a comprehensive social platform, offering a seamless messaging experience to its users.
