Meta’s Threads has long been missing a crucial feature: support for private messages.
However, that may soon change as the platform is currently testing a “Message” button that appears on user profiles.
While Threads has always required an Instagram account, and the two Meta-owned platforms share and sync certain features and options, the lack of direct messaging capabilities has been a notable limitation.
Unfortunately, this means that Threads has had to rely on Instagram for specific functionality, including private messaging.
It’s important to note that Threads still doesn’t have its own dedicated inbox, and it remains unclear if it ever will.
Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has repeatedly stated that he doesn’t want to create a separate inbox for Threads, preferring instead to “make the Instagram inbox work” within the app. A Meta spokesperson, when asked by ZDNet, further confirmed that “this is not a test of DMs on Threads.”
However, even though it’s not a full-fledged direct messaging feature, the ability to send a message from the Threads app without having to switch to Instagram could at least make messaging from Threads a little less clunky.
Actually checking or replying to those messages, though, will still require users to head to the Instagram app.
The idea behind this test is to allow Threads users to message someone without having to manually switch to Instagram.
Speaking to Engadget, Meta directly stated that “this is not a test of DMs on Threads.”
It’s also worth noting that Adam Mosseri had mentioned last year that Threads was working on an ability to send messages directly from the Threads app, and this newly available “Message” button is the first step in that direction.
Meta is assuming that users have the same friends and connections on both Threads and Instagram.
If you normally interact with a user on Threads, sending them a message via Instagram can be confusing.
Additionally, you still need to head to the Instagram app to view or reply to any messages, which may not be the most seamless experience.
Meta is testing a “Message” button on Threads that allows users to initiate messages to Instagram contacts directly from the Threads app, though replies must be managed within Instagram.
Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, has stated a preference to integrate Threads’ messaging functionality within the existing Instagram inbox to maintain simplicity and avoid fragmentation of user experience across Meta platforms.
The feature enables users to send messages directly from Threads to Instagram users. However, to check or reply to messages, users will need to switch to the Instagram app, as Threads does not have a dedicated messaging inbox.
The absence of a direct messaging feature on Threads has been a point of contention among users who desire a more integrated and standalone messaging experience without relying on Instagram.
Also Read: Threads App Update Unveils Swipe Controls for Streamlined Navigation
Also Read: Threads Rolls Out Trending Now Feature to Enhance Real-Time Engagement
Also Read: Threads Steps into the Fediverse and Tests New User-Driven Features
Highlights Android 15 Beta now available for compatible Pixel devices. Eligible devices include Pixel 6,…
Highlights iOS 18 introduces Vocal Shortcuts for voice commands without Siri. Eye Tracking enables control…
Highlights Android 15 Beta 2 expands compatibility to more smartphone brands. Introduces Private Space for…
Highlights Galaxy S25 Ultra rumored to retain four-camera setup with 200MP main sensor. 10MP 3x…
Highlights "Ask Photos" AI tool announced at Google I/O for Google Photos. Users can search…
Highlights Gemini Nano AI "Help Me Write" feature now in Chrome browser. Available in version…