Tumblr is launching group messaging threads
Tumblr is launching group messaging threads
- Users will be able to join threads and talk to others about their favorite topics
- The messaging threads will disappear after 24 hours
- To message in the thread a group’s creator must first authorize the member
- Tumblr says no media originating outside of the platform can be posted
Tumblr is making overtures to the platform’s super fans with a new group-messaging feature that lets users chat together about their favorite topics.
The Verge reports the group chat feature, which is available today, is designed as type of ‘public space’ as opposed to a more direct-messaging feel, meaning anyone can find the threads and read through them.
To be able to send messages in the thread, however, users will first have to be approved.
Tumblr hopes that the feature will provide a more direct bridge for users looking to discuss interests outside of the re-blogging a post.
The threads will also bear some striking differences from other similar community features on platforms like Facebook, which has various ‘Groups’ where users gravitate around interests.
As reported by The Verge, Tumblr’s new group threads will be ephemeral, lasting only 24 hours after being created – think a ‘Story’ post on Snapchat or Instagram – and will only contain 100 people maximum at one time.
Tumblr is also attempting to imbue the chats with some guardrails when it comes to people and content that find their way into threads.
For one, the groups’ creator will have full control over users that enter the threads, meaning they can remove bad actors and vet people before they join.
Once accepted into a chat, Tumblr will also not allow users to post content from outside the platform into the threads.
That means users will only be able to share media like GIFs and pictures by using a built-in tool with vetted media.
