Meta has launched a new feature in Messenger called “Communities,” allowing users to create large group chats without the need for an associated Facebook page. This update, reported by TechCrunch, is designed to accommodate up to 5,000 participants, even if they’re not part of the same Facebook group.
Previously, in 2022, Meta introduced a similar concept for Facebook groups, enabling admins to set up chatrooms resembling those found on platforms like Discord. However, this latest iteration of “Communities” in Messenger broadens the scope significantly. Now, users can establish groups for various purposes, such as local neighborhoods, schools, or special events, without the restriction of being tied to a specific Facebook group.
Meta highlights that the rollout of “Communities” is still in progress, meaning not all users have access yet. Additionally, the company cautions that the privacy level for these group chats may differ from what users typically expect in personal messaging.
This move aligns Messenger more closely with other popular messaging services such as WhatsApp and Discord. For instance, in 2022, WhatsApp enhanced its group communication features, allowing administrators to engage with thousands of members, shifting from its traditional focus on more private, direct messaging.
Meta’s broader strategy indicates a growing emphasis on messaging across its platforms. Instagram, another Meta property, has seen significant growth in direct messaging (DMs), especially among younger users. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, noted that a substantial portion of the platform’s engagement comes from DMs.
Reflecting this trend, Instagram introduced “channels” last year, enabling creators to broadcast updates and announcements to their followers via mass DMs. These channels function similarly to features on Telegram and aim to foster more interactive user engagement through direct messages.
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