TikTok Adds Voice Notes & Media Sharing to DMs | New Messaging Features 2025
TikTok introduces voice notes and photo/video sharing in direct messages, adding safety features for teens and expanding its role as a social communication platform.
Qasim
8/30/20251 min read
TikTok Rolls Out Voice Notes and Media Sharing in Direct Messages
TikTok is expanding its messaging capabilities with new tools that make conversations more interactive and personal. The company confirmed to TechCrunch that users can now send voice notes and share up to nine photos or videos in both one-to-one and group chats.
Voice Notes for Easier Communication
The new voice messaging feature allows users to record and send audio clips up to 60 seconds long. TikTok’s addition comes as platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Apple Messages already support voice notes. With more Gen Z users preferring audio communication over text, this update keeps TikTok in step with modern social habits.
Sharing Photos and Videos
TikTok users can now send multiple images or videos directly in DMs. Content can be captured in real time with the camera or uploaded from the gallery, with editing options available before sending. However, for safety reasons, first-time messages can’t include personal photos or videos; only TikTok content can be shared initially.
Safety and Privacy Measures
TikTok is reinforcing safety features with these updates. Direct messages remain unavailable for users under 16. For ages 16–18, the platform automatically blocks images containing nudity using detection systems. The sender is prevented from sending inappropriate material, while the receiver never sees it. Users over 18 can manually turn this filter on or off in settings.
Additionally, TikTok will prompt senders with reminders about privacy and safe sharing when they send personal images or videos.
Expanding Beyond Entertainment
With these updates, TikTok is evolving from just a video-sharing app into a full-fledged social communication platform, rivaling established messaging services. Over the past year, TikTok has added group chats and creator chat rooms, and now, with media sharing and voice notes, the app is positioning itself as a go-to hub for both content and conversations