Threads Introduces Live Chats, Special Chats for Communities

JAKARTA - Meta introduced the Live Chats feature in Threads that can build conversations directly. This feature is designed to connect creators and fans in the same interest.

Live Chats are different from regular group chats because they focus on the event or moment that is happening. Even though the ongoing chat will be displayed in the message tab, users can distinguish Live Chats by looking at the LIVE label.

The label will be surrounded by a red ring. During the direct message, there are various features that can be used, ranging from real-time polls, countdown, to typing indicators.

Specifically for Live Chats that run during sports events, fans can see the score in real time. That way, all Threads users can adjust their topics to the course of the match.

"Live Chats are a new way to build a community with others around a common interest as the event unfolds," Meta said on its official website, quoted on Thursday, April 23.

The feature's initial launch was made in the NBAThreads community during the Playoffs. A number of well-known media figures such as Malika Andrews and Rachel Nichols will be the initial organizers in the live chat.

Users can find these chats at the top of the Threads community or through links shared on the organizer's timeline. Inside the chat room, participants can send text messages, photos, videos, and links related to the event.

Users can also react to messages sent by other users with emojis. Live Chats have member limits. If the capacity is full, only members can send messages to the chat room.

However, other Threads users can still join Live Chats, but they can only view conversations, give reactions, and follow polls. Currently, the ability to host chats is only available to a select group of creators and community leaders.

Eligible organizers can schedule chat sessions, name topics, and share Live Chats announcements to Instagram Stories. Meta plans to expand this feature to more communities in the coming months with additional co-hosting features and lock screen widgets.