Instagram has begun encouraging users to share their posts with friends. After publishing a post, some users have received a notification saying, "Want to send it directly to friends?" along with a Send button.

Instagram is testing the option to share a draft of a Reel via direct messages to friends.

Instagram announced several new features for direct messages (DM), including:

Instagram has introduced a new "People You Follow" filter for direct messages (DMs).

LinkedIn has expanded the functionality of its AI Writing Assistant to include direct messages.

TikTok has expanded the options for Direct Message settings, giving creators the ability to select who they want to receive messages from, such as everyone, suggested friends, mutual followers, people you’ve sent messages to, or no one.

TikTok recently announced the launch of new Family Safety Mode features that are focused on helping parents and guardians keep their teens safe on the popular app.