Meta launches AI chatbot in Threads direct messages

Meta has begun rolling out its Meta AI chatbot into the direct messaging feature of its Threads platform, allowing users to engage in private conversations with the artificial intelligence assistant. The global rollout started on Monday, July 27, 2026, enabling users to share posts, images, links, and videos from Threads directly with the chatbot and ask follow-up questions.

This integration provides a private alternative to interacting with Meta AI in public feeds, a feature that has been available in select markets. The company stated the move offers a more natural way for users to explore topics, seek summaries, or gain context without leaving the Threads app. Meta AI is already available within direct messages on the company's other major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.

The launch builds upon the expansion of Threads' messaging capabilities. The platform introduced standalone direct messages globally in July 2025, after initial tests, and has since added group chats and web access for DMs. With Threads now reporting 500 million monthly active users as of June 2026, the AI integration represents a significant new testing ground for Meta's...