Meta AI chatbot now available in Threads DMs

Meta has begun integrating its artificial intelligence assistant, Meta AI, into the direct messaging feature of its social media platform Threads. The rollout, announced on Monday, allows users to interact with the chatbot directly within their private conversations on the app.

The feature affects all Threads users who have access to the updated version of the platform. By enabling Meta AI in DMs, users can now ask questions, get recommendations, or engage in casual conversation with the AI without leaving their message threads. This marks a deeper integration of Meta's AI tools into its social ecosystem.

The move matters because it expands the reach of Meta AI beyond Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, where it was previously available. Threads, which launched in July 2023 as a text-based rival to X (formerly Twitter), has been adding features to retain users and compete with other platforms. Embedding AI in DMs could enhance user engagement by offering instant assistance or entertainment within private chats.

Meta did not specify a precise date for the full rollout but said the feature is being introduced gradually. The company has not disclosed how many users currently have access. Meta AI was first unveiled in September 2023 and has since been integrated into various Meta products, including smart glasses and the Ray-Ban Meta glasses.

Looking ahead, Meta plans to continue expanding Meta AI's capabilities and availability across its apps. The company has not announced whether Threads DMs will eventually support other AI features, such as image generation or voice interactions, but the integration signals a broader push to make AI a central part of user experience on Meta platforms.