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YouTube turns into a messenger: the platform has returned the function of private messages
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

YouTube turns into a messenger: the platform has returned the function of private messages

YouTube has reintroduced in-app private chats, allowing users to share videos, shorts, and live broadcasts without using third-party platforms. To start a chat, users must send an invitation through an external messenger, which is valid for seven days. Once accepted, users can chat one-on-one, but sharing is limited to publicly available content, and interactions are restricted to known contacts. The messaging feature is accessible via a dedicated button in the app, with notifications sent through push alerts. It is currently available only to adult users, with no support for group chats. YouTube previously discontinued its chat feature in 2019 due to low engagement but has decided to bring it back after positive testing results. The new messaging system is currently limited to users in the US, UK, Brazil, and Singapore, with no timeline for availability in Ukraine or other regions.
YouTube Brings Back In-App Messaging Feature: Here's How To Use It
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

YouTube Brings Back In-App Messaging Feature: Here’s How To Use It

YouTube has reintroduced its messaging feature, allowing users to share videos and engage in conversations directly within the app. This feature is currently available in the United States and select other regions, with plans for a wider rollout, including India. Users must be at least 18 years old to access the feature, which includes an age verification process. To enable it, users can create an invite link within the app to chat with known contacts. The feature is accessible in various countries, including the UK, Germany, France, and others. Users can share any YouTube video, but messages are not end-to-end encrypted and are subject to YouTube's Community Guidelines.
YouTube expands in-app messaging
AppWizard
June 12, 2026

YouTube expands in-app messaging

YouTube is expanding its in-app messaging feature, initially tested in Ireland and Poland, to the United States and other global markets. The feature, called YouTube Chat, allows users to directly message and share content within the app. Users can invite friends to chat, enabling them to share posts and discuss videos. This update aims to enhance user engagement and streamline sharing activities, reflecting a trend towards private messaging. Favorable feedback has been received during initial testing, although the feature's success will depend on user willingness to use it in place of established messaging platforms.
YouTube Brings In-App Sharing & Messaging To The U.S.
AppWizard
June 12, 2026

YouTube Brings In-App Sharing & Messaging To The U.S.

YouTube is expanding its in-app video sharing and messaging feature to key markets including the U.S., U.K., Brazil, Singapore, and various U.S. territories. Users aged 18 and older can share videos and engage in discussions without leaving the app. The messaging system operates through an invitation process, allowing users to send invite links that expire after seven days. Once connected, users can share long-form videos, Shorts, and live streams, and have the ability to unsend messages, block, or report others. This feature is not available for Brand Accounts and is governed by YouTube’s Community Guidelines, with content not used for ad targeting. The original messaging feature was discontinued in 2019 but was reintroduced as a pilot in Ireland and Poland in November 2025, later expanding to 31 European countries. YouTube plans to further expand this feature, though specific markets and timelines are not yet disclosed.
Expanding ways to share on YouTube
AppWizard
June 11, 2026

Expanding ways to share on YouTube

YouTube is expanding its in-app video sharing and messaging feature for users aged 18 and older in the U.S. and various international markets. The update allows users to share videos and react in real-time through a new messaging icon in the app. This feature has received positive feedback from regions where it was previously implemented, and YouTube encourages adherence to its Community Guidelines for shared content. The company aims to gather user feedback to refine the platform further.
YouTube rolling out new in-app messaging with invite-only chats
AppWizard
June 11, 2026

YouTube rolling out new in-app messaging with invite-only chats

YouTube is rolling out a new in-app messaging system that allows users to share videos, Shorts, and livestreams and engage in one-on-one conversations. A messaging icon will appear in the top-right corner of the app, and users can invite others via a URL link valid for seven days, shared through a third-party platform. Recipients must choose to allow messaging or decline. The feature is for users aged 18 and older and adheres to Community Guidelines. Users can unsend messages, block individuals, and report inappropriate content. Initially tested in Europe, it is now available in the United States, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Singapore.
Meta can see your Instagram messages now, and it's time to stop using it
AppWizard
May 8, 2026

Meta can see your Instagram messages now, and it’s time to stop using it

Instagram has removed end-to-end encryption from its direct messaging feature, meaning messages are no longer fully private. Meta can access and analyze message content for moderation, citing low adoption rates and safety concerns as reasons for this decision. The change took effect on May 8, 2026, and allows Meta to combat issues like child exploitation, fraud, and harassment. Users can download their chats, but ongoing conversations are not protected by encryption. Meta suggests users transition to WhatsApp for continued end-to-end encryption.
Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Threads adds direct messaging access on desktop

Threads has rolled out its messaging feature on the desktop version of the app, allowing users to access DMs through the left sidebar. This feature aims to enhance communication on the platform and was the most requested upgrade since messaging was introduced in July. Threads Chief Connor Hayes emphasized the importance of facilitating private discussions. Initially, there were doubts about incorporating a DM feature due to Meta's strategy to unify its messaging platforms. After a legal victory, Meta shifted focus and introduced Threads DMs, allowing for new experimental features such as interactive elements and DM links.
Social media giant spins off new app for disappearing photos
AppWizard
April 23, 2026

Social media giant spins off new app for disappearing photos

Meta has launched a new standalone application called Instants for sharing disappearing photos with friends. The app opens directly to the camera, allowing users to quickly capture and send images that vanish after being viewed or within 24 hours. Instants is inspired by Snapchat's model and aims to foster connections through fleeting moments. It allows for sharing and viewing images within the app or through Instagram. Despite its launch, Instants has seen only over 100 downloads on the Play Store, indicating a slow uptake in user interest.
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