Tumblr is launching group messaging threads that will connect people of different fandoms and disappear after 24 hours

  • 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 has launched a group messaging feature where users can go to talk about their favorite topics

Tumblr has launched a group messaging feature where users can go to talk about their favorite topics

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.

Tumblr has cracked down on adult content and no longer allows nudity or porn on its platform - formerly a staple of its site

Tumblr has cracked down on adult content and no longer allows nudity or porn on its platform - formerly a staple of its site

That means users will only be able to share media like GIFs and pictures by using a built-in tool with vetted media. 

Tumblr has stiffened its policy on adult content throughout the past several years, notably prohibiting both porn and nudity in general - two formerly robust types of content on the platform. 

The Verge report that Tumblr will not change any of its privacy policies with the addition of its group messaging feature. 

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