TikTok has expanded its direct messaging tools to include voice messages up to 60 seconds and the ability to send photos and videos, the company announced as it continues to build out in‑app communication features. The rollout will take place over the coming weeks and brings the platform closer to parity with other social apps that already support audio messaging.
Users will be able to record short audio clips within a chat and send images or short video clips either by taking new media with the camera or selecting files from their device. TikTok also enables basic editing of photos and videos prior to sharing, giving senders options to crop or annotate content before it is delivered.
The company said it has placed limits on certain first‑contact interactions: a photo or video cannot be sent as the initial message request from someone who has never messaged the recipient before. In those cases, only media already posted on TikTok may be shared, not newly captured content.
TikTok is positioning the additions as tools for richer self‑expression and more frequent interaction between users, especially younger audiences who have helped popularize voice messaging. Researchers and outlets have documented the growing preference for voice notes among Gen Z, who value the format for its immediacy and tone (see reporting at NPR).
Safety controls accompany the new features. Direct messaging is already restricted for users younger than 16, and the platform said it will enforce extra protections for people aged 16 to 17. Automated systems will attempt to detect and block images containing nudity so the sender cannot transmit them and the recipient will not receive them. Adults can opt to adjust this safety setting in their account preferences.
TikTok has been incrementally enhancing its messaging product over the past year. Recent additions include group chats that support up to 32 participants and Creator Chat Rooms designed to facilitate interactions between creators and their followers.
The company did not provide detailed adoption forecasts or metrics tied to the new messaging features. The changes reflect a broader industry trend of social platforms investing in richer, private communication tools to increase time spent in app and deepen user engagement.
