Meta marks two years of Threads with two major updates reshaping user experience

As Threads marks its second anniversary, Meta is celebrating the platform’s steady evolution into a dynamic hub for online communities. With user engagement growing and the app carving out a distinct identity separate from Instagram, Threads is steadily positioning itself as Meta’s next major social platform.

According to the tech giant, over a third of Threads’ daily users are engaging with accounts they don’t follow on Instagram, reinforcing the notion that Threads is building its own unique ecosystem of voices and communities. In its latest update, Meta is unveiling two significant features designed to enhance user interaction and discovery on Threads: in-app direct messaging and a new visual element dubbed the Threads highlighter.

While Threads was originally built for public discourse and the sharing of diverse perspectives, the tech giant recognises that some conversations naturally extend beyond public view. Responding to user demand, the company has now introduced the ability to send direct messages within the app, enabling more meaningful, private exchanges.

Initially, this feature will be limited to users aged 18 and over and only available between people who either follow each other on Threads or are mutual followers on Instagram. Meta has also hinted at several enhancements coming soon.

These include message controls, which will allow users to decide who can send them messages, including those who don’t follow them on Threads or Instagram, along with a dedicated folder for message requests. Group messaging is also on the horizon, enabling users to engage in private conversations with multiple participants. Additionally, inbox filters will help streamline communication by making it easier to locate and respond to important messages.

Another key feature introduced is the Threads highlighter, a visual tool designed to spotlight compelling perspectives and conversations. Initially, it will appear in discovery areas of the app and highlight trending topics, with broader integration planned for the near future.

This update is part of Threads’ broader strategy as it enters its third year, to support thriving communities, amplify underrepresented voices, and foster open, constructive dialogue.