TikTok DMs Level Up with Voice Notes and Image Sharing

What to know

• TikTok now supports voice notes (up to 60 seconds) and sharing images or videos (up to nine at once) in direct messages.
• You can send content from your camera or camera roll and edit before sending, but cannot send images or videos as the first message in a request.
• These features are gradually rolling out globally, with safety protections for users aged 16–18, including automated nudity detection.
• TikTok aims to expand messaging functionality, aligning more with other platforms and fostering richer interactions.

TikTok has taken a big step toward becoming a more versatile messaging platform. TikTok revealed to TechCrunch that in its latest update, the app now lets users share voice notes and images or videos in direct messages, bringing it closer in line with the functionalities offered by apps like WhatsApp and Instagram.

Apparently, a user on X was able to get their hands on the new features a bit earlier than the rest of the world – check the Aug 26 dates X post below.

TikTok users can now record and send voice notes lasting up to 60 seconds in both one-on-one and group chats. This feature adds a personal touch to messages—perfect for quick verbal expressions, tone-rich communication, or convenience when typing isn’t ideal. The voice notes can be recorded either by holding the button, swiping to lock for hands-free recording, or deleted shortly after sending if needed.

Up to nine images or videos can now be shared at once in direct messages. You can either capture new media using the camera, select items from your camera roll, and even edit them before sending. However, for initial message requests, TikTok does not allow users to send images or videos taken themselves—this is to prevent unsolicited or potentially unwanted content.

To protect users, images or videos can’t be sent as the very first message request. For instance, if someone contacts you for the first time, they can only share TikTok content—not their own photos or videos.

The new messaging features are currently rolling out over the coming weeks, which means not every user will see them immediately. Availability may vary by region or device.

Safety features for under-18s

For users aged 16–18, TikTok has added safety safeguards. Nudity detection is automated: any inappropriate image will be blocked from sending, and the recipient will not see it. For users 18 and older, there's an option in settings to toggle such safety measures on or off.

These new capabilities mark TikTok's evolution from a video-centric entertainment app to a fully featured social messaging platform. Now, users can connect with friends in more expressive ways—sending voice messages when typing feels cumbersome or sharing multiple snapshots without logging out of the app.