Key Takeaways
- Meta tests Threads DM games to enhance messaging within the app, shifting from reliance on Instagram DMs.
- The games, like the basketball shooting game, engage users directly in message threads, following a trend seen in other apps.
- Testing includes live chats to foster real-time group discussions, reflecting a commitment to deeper interactions.
- Meta changed its DM strategy due to increased competition and regulatory pressures that influenced their messaging tools.
- With reduced regulatory risks, Meta aims to develop distinct messaging systems, focusing on usage and engagement for Threads.
Threads DM games move Meta messaging plans forward
Threads DM games are now in testing as Meta continues to expand messaging on Threads. The app first launched without a native inbox. Early users were directed to Instagram DMs instead. That position changed as Threads usage increased.
How Threads DM games fit into messaging rollout
Threads added native direct messaging in July last year. Group chats followed in October. Since then, Meta has continued to add messaging tools. It represents the next stage in building a full messaging experience. The goal involves making Threads a stronger alternative to X.
What Threads DM games look like
The games appear inside direct message threads. App researcher Alessandro Paluzzi shared images of a basketball shooting game. The game uses swipe controls. Users challenge people they chat with directly in the message stream. The feature stays inside the conversation.
Why Meta is testing Threads DM games
It focus on increasing message activity. Other platforms already use simple games. LinkedIn introduced puzzle games inside its app. Those games recorded steady user engagement. Thre games follow a similar design approach.
Current status of Threads DM games
Meta confirmed the Threads DM games test to TechCrunch. The company said the feature remains experimental. Public testing has not started. Changes may occur before any wider release.
Other DM features under testing
Alongside the games, Meta is also testing live chats. These live chats support Threads communities. The feature allows real time group discussions. Both updates show a focus on deeper message based interaction.
Why Meta changed its DM strategy
Meta originally avoided a separate Threads inbox. That changed as competition with X increased. The shift also followed regulatory changes in the United States. The Federal Trade Commission had challenged Meta’s ownership of Instagram and WhatsApp.
How regulation influenced Threads messaging
During the FTC case, Meta planned to merge inboxes across Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The plan increased technical ties between apps. The case has since ended. The risk of forced divestment decreased.
What comes next for Threads
With regulatory pressure reduced, Meta now builds separate messaging systems. The games highlight that flexibility. The platform continues testing features aimed at boosting usage, return visits, and time spent inside direct messages.
Source: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/threads-experiments-with-games-in-dms/809032/