Archive — US — techcrunch
Threads finally brings messaging to the web
Threads has launched messaging features for the web, allowing users to engage in one-on-one and group chats. This aligns its desktop experience with competitors like X and Bluesky. The introduction responds to user demand and comes amid a rise in message activity, with Threads averaging 350 million DMs weekly. Live Chats, allowing real-time interaction, further enhance communication options on the platform.
Key points
- Threads now offers messaging on the web for one-on-one and group chats.
- The rollout responds to user demands; web messaging was the most requested feature after DMs were introduced in July 2025.
- Threads aims to enhance user experience by aligning with competitors such as X and Bluesky.
- User message activity has increased by 30% in 2025, averaging 350 million DMs weekly.
- Live Chats feature allows real-time interactions with up to 150 participants, offering a unique aspect not available on competitors' platforms.
Why it matters
- The shift to web messaging aligns with trends towards enhanced communication tools within social media platforms.
- The rising emphasis on real-time interaction reflects a broader trend in social media towards live engagement.
- The competitive landscape in social media, dominated by multi-features, necessitates innovations like Threads' web messaging and Live Chats.
The introduction of web messaging and Live Chats on Threads marks a significant step in enhancing user engagement, catering to demands in the competitive social media landscape, and potentially boosting the platform's growth and user retention.