Now you can get Direct messages from strangers on Twitter

In its recent blog post, Twitter has announced that it is enabling faster and easier communication for its users by allowing the direct messaging feature, wherein users can send private messages to people or accounts they are not connected with. Being an opt-in feature, it however allows you to choose whether to enable the option and receive direct messages from anyone on the social networking site or not.

The blog post by Twitter stated-

“Direct Messages are the best way to take your public Twitter conversations private. Today, we’re changing how direct messaging works so that it’s even easier for you to communicate one-to-one or with a chosen group of people, anywhere in the world.”

Previously, if you had to message someone privately on Twitter, you needed to be connected with that person (that is both persons followed each other) on the platform. This made private conversations difficult as in order to reach out to someone you needed to make sure that the person is following you, barring which you were only left with the option of sharing a question or comment that will be publicly displayed across the platform.

The new changes are intended to make communications simpler. Twitter, like other online platforms, is also looking at expanding its user base and the change will be intended to make features more appealing to the user base.

As with most other things, this too might have a flip side as users may not like the unwanted attention coming in the form of direct messages. But the good thing is that this is an opt-in feature, so it still remains to be seen that how many users will actually enable the direct messaging option.

 According to the blog, these are the changes:

• A setting that allows you to receive Direct Messages from anyone, even if you don’t follow them. To change your settings follow these instructions.
• Updated messaging rules so you can reply to anyone who sends you a Direct Message, regardless of whether or not that person follows you.
• A new Direct Message button on profile pages on Android and iPhone. You’ll see it on the profiles of people you can send Direct Messages to.

We would like to know what you think about the direct messaging feature? Write to us.