TikTok is a popular video platform that continues to gain traction among users. However, to keep up with competition from other social networks , it has begun introducing new features to offer its users an even better experience. Most recently, it announced that be TikTok users able to receive direct messages (DMs) from anyone, will just like on Instagram ! This adds another dimension of connectivity and engagement for people using this dynamic platform.
TikTok: Expanding the DMs feature
For those who don't know, TikTok already offers direct messaging capabilities on its platform. TikTok DMs are an effective way for users to communicate privately with each other without their conversations being publicly visible for everyone else to see. However, until now there were some limitations. As The Information, that's about to change, as it will now allow communication with anyone!
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In fact, this feature isn’t exactly new. It was first introduced in November of last year, but it was only available to a small group of users. Now, in a recent email sent to TikTok users, the platform confirms that it is expanding the DMs options on its app. Users will no longer be able to send messages only to their friends, but also to users who have “opened” their inboxes to the public.
For now, the new feature is optional. Users can, if they want, choose to continue receiving messages only from mutual followers or suggested friends . In this case, the feature will be based on synced contacts or friends on Facebook. Essentially, there are now five options in relation to messages: everyone, suggested friends, mutual followers, people you've sent messages to, or no one.
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TikTok explains that if you select the “ everyone ” option , it means anyone can send you DMs. Messages from mutual friends and people you follow will appear in your inbox, and messages from people you don’t follow will appear in message requests. You can choose to accept, delete, or report these messages.
To change your direct message settings, tap the Profile at the bottom of the TikTok home screen. Then, tap the Menu at the top and select “Settings and privacy.” Then tap “Privacy.” From there, you need to select “Direct messages,” and then you’ll be able to choose who you’d like to allow to send you DMs.
With this new feature to receive DMs from anyone, TikTok wants to ensure that more users share videos directly on the app, rather than using another social network.
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TikTok is already one of the most successful entertainment platforms and now it probably wants to expand social features to further “beat” competitors and attract more users.
