TikTok is expanding its direct messaging features, giving users more ways to connect beyond sharing videos. The company confirmed Friday that users will soon be able to send 60-second voice notes and share up to nine photos or videos in both one-to-one and group chats.
The move signals TikTok’s ambitions to evolve into a broader communication platform, aligning its messaging experience with popular apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Apple’s Messages. Gen Z, in particular, has embraced voice notes as a casual way to communicate, making the addition a natural fit for the platform.
The rollout will take place over the next few weeks. Users can capture new photos or videos or choose from their camera roll, with editing options available before sending. However, to protect privacy, people cannot send photos or videos as an initial message request, only existing TikTok content can be shared in that first interaction.
TikTok is also reinforcing safety measures. Automated systems will block nude images from being sent or received by users under 18, and teens between 16 and 18 will see additional safeguards. Users over 18 can opt to enable the same protections in their settings.
While DMs remain unavailable for those under 16, TikTok has steadily built out messaging for its older audience. In 2023, the platform launched group chats with up to 32 participants, and recently it introduced Creator Chat Rooms, allowing creators and followers to connect in dedicated spaces.
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By layering in features like voice notes and multimedia sharing, TikTok aims to become not just an entertainment app but a full-fledged social communication hub.
