Tumblr announced Tuesday that it has updated its service with an instant messaging feature on the web and in its iOS and Android apps.
"You've asked us for real instant messaging, and now it's on its way. This means things like threaded conversations - yes!" Tumblr wrote in a blog post.
However, the feature is currently limited to 1,500 users but will be available globally by December. Yahoo decided to integrate the feature in an attempt to boost social engagement in the site. The company also added that it plans to introduce more updates in the future to improve instant communications, according to TechCrunch.
You will know that you are one of the chosen few if you see a smiley face chat icon in the top menu bar of your app or site. It works quite similar to Facebook Messenger and one can set to accept chats from people they follow only or from everyone.
Another limitation that the instant messaging feature has it that it won't be available for private and group blogs. Sending anonymous messages are also not allowed.
Yahoo clarified that while being similar to Facebook's Messenger app, Tumblr's instant messaging plans to be unique.
"We're not intending to take on or replicate the messaging platforms that already exist," a Tumblr spokesperson told Mashable. "We thought a lot about the behaviors that are unique to Tumblr and how our users beautifully blend community, content and self-expression."
