Threads Rolls Out Direct Messaging on Web

Meta-owned social network Threads announced Tuesday the rollout of direct messaging on its web platform, enabling one-on-one and group chats directly from desktop browsers.

The update, confirmed by Connor Hayes, head of Threads, fulfills what he described as the most requested feature since mobile direct messages launched in July 2025. "Our most engaged people spend time on web because they're at their desks, tapped in, using Threads for longer sessions," Hayes wrote in a post. "A conversation app needs to work wherever you are, and now it does." Users accessing the web version now see a Messages tab, represented by a paper plane icon in the left navigation, which opens their inbox, a Requests section for incoming messages, and search functionality to start or find chats.

The feature is initially available to a limited group of users in select regions as part of a phased rollout, with plans to expand. It supports privacy controls consistent with the mobile app, allowing users to decide who can message them, such as followers or mutual Instagram followers, and options to restrict, block or report accounts. Messaging is restricted to those aged 18 and older. While one-on-one chats...