Threads is testing a new shortcut that allows users to start direct messaging conversations by typing “DM me” or “Message me” in a post or reply. The company announced the test on Thursday, stating the feature automatically generates a hyperlink inviting others to start a private chat. Tapping the shortcut opens a one-on-one chat with the user.
The feature removes the need to navigate to a person’s profile to start a DM conversation. This move indicates the platform is working to reduce the steps required to begin a conversation. The company said the addition aims to make messaging a more central part of the platform.
If both users follow each other, the message goes directly to their primary inbox. If they do not follow each other, the message is filtered through the “Message Requests” folder. The company stated this process is designed to prevent spam.
The shortcut is rolling out to select users in the United States and Canada. It is unknown when or if Threads plans to roll out the feature more widely. The company declined to provide a timeline for a broader release.
Threads recently introduced an AI-powered feature to personalize the user feed. The platform also added the ability to share posts directly to an Instagram Story without leaving the app. Last month, Threads was spotted exploring in-message games.
A report from market intelligence firm Similarweb indicated Threads surpassed X in daily mobile usage. The report stated Threads had 141.5 million daily active users on mobile as of January 7, 2026. X had 125 million daily active users on mobile as of the same date.
Similarweb noted that X still dominates Threads on the web. The Threads mobile app for iOS and Android has seen an increase in daily active users over the past several months. Threads is owned by Meta.
Meta is the parent company of Instagram and Facebook. The company did not immediately comment on future plans for the DM shortcut. Threads was launched in 2023.
