TikTok is expanding its direct messaging (DM) functionality with the introduction of voice notes and photo sharing in a bid to boost user engagement and compete with other trendy messaging apps like Instagram and WhatsApp.
Voice Notes: A New Way to Communicate
Users are now able to send voice messages up to 60 seconds in group and one-on-one chats. To record, hold down the microphone icon; release to send. To cancel, swipe up or left before releasing. This allows for more personal and expressive communication.
Image and Video Sharing in DMs
TikTok also added the ability to share up to nine videos or images within a message. Users may record media in-app or post from the device gallery. Videos exchanged via DMs are capped at one minute.
Image Credits:TikTok
Enhanced Safety Features
For the protection of younger users, TikTok has implemented stronger security features:
- Age Gates: Direct messaging is limited to persons 16 years and older.
- Content Filters: For users aged 16–17, any nude content is automatically filtered out by TikTok, deleting the message and banning the sender.
- First-Time DM Requests: New DM requests are unable to be sent using personal images or videos; only already-posted content on TikTok can be used.
These features are being introduced in the next few weeks and will become available to all eligible users.
Adding voice notes and image sharing in DMs by TikTok is a huge step towards making the app more interactive and social-driven like other leading messaging apps.