Threads DM & Highlights: New Features Explained

Threads Mimics Twitter with Direct messages and Trending Topics, faces Privacy Concerns

Meta’s Threads, launched almost two years ago as a competitor to X (formerly Twitter), is rapidly adopting features that made its rival popular – including direct messaging and a trending topics display.however, the introduction of these features is not without controversy, especially regarding user safety and data privacy.

A Shift Towards Familiarity

The addition of direct messaging brings Threads in line with both X and the emerging social network Bluesky, which implemented the feature over a year ago, in May 2024.This move, coupled with the introduction of the “Threads Highlighter” – a system for emphasizing popular topics – signals a clear effort to replicate the user experience offered by X. The highlighter functions similarly to Twitter’s trends,but notably omits the use of hashtags.

Limited Rollout and Future Expansion

Currently, direct messages on Threads are limited to one-on-one conversations.Initial access is restricted to users who are followers of each other on both Threads and Instagram, and all participants must be at least 18 years old. Meta Platforms has indicated plans to expand the functionality, with features like group chats and content filters on the horizon.Future updates may also allow users to opt-in to receiving messages from non-followers.

Did you know?-Bluesky, another social media platform, introduced direct messaging in May 2024, preceding Threads’ recent implementation.This feature has become increasingly common across social networks.

Backlash and Safety Concerns

Despite being a frequently requested feature, the declaration of direct messaging was met with important criticism, particularly from female users. Concerns center around the potential for unwanted and harassing messages from strangers. Manny users have expressed a desire for the ability to disable the feature entirely.

Reader question:-Given the concerns about privacy and potential harassment, what features woudl make you feel safer using direct messaging on Threads? Share your thoughts in the comments.

According to a company representative, direct messages are not end-to-end encrypted, unlike Meta’s WhatsApp messenger. “we do not encrypt our direct messages,” stated a product lead at Threads, in an interview with Techcrunch. “It is really just about contacting directly and talking to the people about what is happening. In my opinion, the encryption for the experience becomes less central.”

Defining Threads’ Identity

Meta Platforms emphasizes that Threads is cultivating its own distinct user base. Data suggests that over a third of regular threads users follow accounts on the platform that they do not follow on Instagram, with overlap between the two networks remaining below 50 percent. As one official noted, “Instagram is really for creativity and threads is really for perspectives.”

Pro tip:-While Threads’ direct messages aren’t encrypted, remember that you can control who can message you by managing your followers on both Threads and Instagram. Consider limiting your follower list to people you trust.

The “threads Highlighter” is intended to further foster these perspectives. Following a year-long test,the feature now displays relevant posts on trending topics within users’ feeds,utilizing color cues to draw attention. Meta Platforms plans to expand the placement of the highlighter in the future to stimulate further conversation.

The evolution of Threads continues, as the platform navigates the delicate balance between mirroring prosperous features of its competitors and establishing its own unique identity within the social media landscape.

Direct Messaging on Threads: A Deep Dive

The recent introduction of direct messaging (DM) on Threads, as mentioned earlier, has stirred considerable debate regarding user safety and data privacy [[1]]. While the feature aims to enhance user interaction, the lack of end-to-end encryption has raised concerns, particularly within a platform that is still defining its identity. This section examines the intricacies of DM on Threads, addressing its current limitations, future prospects, and the critical privacy implications.

Threads currently offers a basic,unencrypted direct messaging system [[2]]. This means that messages are not protected by the advanced security protocols found in apps like WhatsApp. Its launch signifies a significant shift, mirroring functionality seen on other social media platforms. The core functionality currently allows for one-on-one conversations between users who follow each other on both Threads and Instagram. A major downside is the absence of end-to-end encryption,leaving messages vulnerable to potential breaches or surveillance.

The encryption Conundrum

The absence of end-to-end encryption is a crucial aspect of Threads’ DM system. End-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and recipient can read the messages. This privacy measure is absent in Threads’ DMs, unlike its sister platform WhatsApp. Meta’s decision to not encrypt messages has been a point of contention, drawing comparisons to the more secure messaging systems offered elsewhere. The company suggests that encryption is less central to the experience, a stance that has sparked discussion among privacy advocates.

The lack of encryption means that Meta can potentially access and analyze the content of messages sent through Threads. This access raises concerns about data privacy, especially given the platform’s ties to instagram and potentially, the wider Meta ecosystem. The company, however, has yet to comment on the reasons behind this decision other than that encryption is not central to the user experience.

Future Feature Expansion and User Controls

Meta has declared plans to expand the functionality of direct messaging on Threads. future updates coudl include group chats and content filters, aiming to improve user experience and promote safer interaction. These enhancements might encompass additional features aimed at curbing abuse and providing users with more control over their messaging experience. The rollout of these features is intended to shape the platform’s evolution, making it more engaging to users.

Benefits of direct messaging in Threads

• Facilitates one-on-one interaction: DM allows users to have private conversations, share facts, and connect directly with their followers.
• Promotes community building: The ability to message privately can encourage closer relationships among users, leading to a stronger network.
• Enables direct support and customer service: Businesses and creators can use DMs to provide customer assistance, respond to inquiries, and resolve issues swiftly.
• Allows for sharing exclusive content: Users can share private content or behind-the-scenes information directly with individuals or groups.

Practical Tips for Safe Messaging

Users can take several steps to manage their privacy within direct messaging. Proactive measures are essential to mitigating privacy risks.

• Manage Followers: Review and control who follows you on both Threads and Instagram, as this directly influences who can DM you.
• Be Cautious with Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information in messages.
• Report and Block: use the reporting and blocking features to address harassment or unwanted messages instantly.
• Review Settings: Regularly check your privacy settings on both Threads and Instagram to ensure they align with your comfort level.

Is direct messaging encrypted on Threads? No, direct messages on Threads are not end-to-end encrypted, unlike those on WhatsApp [[2]].

Can I control who can message me on threads? Yes, you can manage who can message you by controlling your followers on both Threads and instagram. Limiting your followers is an easy way to make sure only people you trust can reach you.