Meta has launched “Live Chats” on its social platform Threads, a new feature designed to foster real-time conversations during major cultural events. The company announced that the feature will debut within the NBA Threads community during the Playoffs, with prominent media figures such as Malika Andrews, Rachel Nichols, and Da Kid Gowie hosting live discussions during games.
Live Chats are initially being rolled out to a select group of creators, with Meta planning to expand access over time. Users can participate by sending messages, photos, videos, links, and emoji reactions. Up to 150 participants can actively contribute to a chat, while additional viewers can follow along in “spectator” mode, reacting to messages and joining polls.
The feature is part of Meta’s broader effort to make Threads more timely and relevant, addressing early criticisms that the platform lagged behind competitors like X in delivering real-time commentary and breaking news. Unlike X, which built its reputation as a global “town square,” Threads initially lacked tools such as robust search, hashtags, and a chronological feed. Over time, Meta has added these features and is now introducing Live Chats as a unique way to engage users around cultural moments as they unfold.
Meta describes Live Chats as an extension of the conversations already happening on Threads, offering a dynamic alternative to traditional group chats. The feature is designed to help creators and fans connect over shared interests, whether it’s a sports event, an album release, or other live happenings.
Users can join Live Chats from the top of a Community feed, through a shared post in their main feed, or by tapping a red live ring around a host’s profile photo. While chats are time-limited, they remain publicly accessible after they end. Meta has implemented moderation tools, including automatic detection of policy-violating messages and the ability for hosts to demote or remove disruptive participants.
Looking ahead, Meta plans to enhance Live Chats with features such as co-hosting, real-time play-by-play updates, lock screen widgets, and the ability to quote and share chat messages directly to Threads feeds. While the initial focus is on sports, the feature has potential for use in a wide range of events, from the Fifa World Cup and awards shows to TV finales and beyond.
