TikTok has announced that it’s rolling out new messaging features that allow users to send voice notes and share up to nine images or videos in private and group chats with these features set to be available over the coming weeks.
TikTok spokesperson JaShel Jones told the press that “Direct Messaging is only available to accounts 16 years and older, which means these features are only available to those accounts”. This clarification confirms the safe rollout limited to eligible users.
Each voice note can be up to 60 seconds long. The experience mirrors other major apps like WhatsApp and Instagram, which already support voice messaging, but TikTok aims to close the gap and evolve into more of a social platform than just a video app.
In addition to voice messaging, TikTok allows users to either take a new photo or video, or select one from their gallery, and even edit it before sharing.
The app further reminds users to think about their privacy before sending media—especially if it’s their first message to someone. To prevent misuse, photos or videos cannot be sent as the initial message unless the recipient has already accepted the chat request.
TikTok has firmly kept its safety measures in place. Users under 16 still cannot send or receive DMs. For ages 16 to 18, the app automatically blocks images containing nudity, preventing both the sender and recipient from seeing inappropriate content. Adults over 18 can choose in their settings whether to enable or disable this filter.
These updates are part of TikTok’s broader push into messaging tools—it already introduced group chats last year that support up to 32 users, as well as Creator Chat Rooms where public figures can connect with their followers directly.
With TikTok’s popularity soaring in Uganda—especially among youths who use it to build personal brands, promote businesses, or follow trends—these new features are a game-changer.
TikTok is no longer just a place to watch videos, but also a platform where people expect to chat, share ideas, and stay connected—putting it in direct competition with WhatsApp, which has long been the messaging leader in Uganda.
