TikTok adds voice notes and expanded media sharing to direct messages

TikTok is introducing new features to its direct messages, providing users with ways to communicate beyond text. The platform now supports voice notes, allowing users to record and send audio messages up to 60 seconds long. This addition places TikTok's messaging capabilities alongside established services like WhatsApp, Instagram, Signal, and Apple's Messages, which already offer similar options.

Alongside voice notes, TikTok now lets users share up to nine images or videos in both one-to-one and group chats. This expands content-sharing options for users, making messaging on the platform more versatile. Following these updates, TikTok aims to position itself as more than an entertainment platform. The move reflects a broader strategy to foster regular social interactions that are common on other leading social apps.

These messaging updates will become available to users over the next few weeks, according to TikTok. The features are designed to bring the app's chat experience in line with competitors and increase direct engagement on the platform.