Threads Tests In-Chat Games
Meta-owned social media platform Threads is exploring the possibility of adding games within its messaging feature. A Meta spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that the company is internally developing a prototype basketball game, which has not yet been made available to the general public. TechCrunch reported the development.
Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi was the first to spot the game, sharing screenshots that show a swipe-based mechanic allowing users to shoot a virtual basketball. The feature would also enable competition with friends based on high scores.
If games are launched directly within messages, Threads could gain a competitive edge over rival platforms such as X and Bluesky. The move could even position Threads as a contender to Apple Messages, which already allows users to play games through third-party apps.
However, since the initiative remains in an experimental stage, there is no confirmation on when—or whether—the feature will be rolled out publicly. Meta had previously introduced a hidden emoji-based game in Instagram’s direct messages.
The company appears to be testing new features to retain users on Threads, although the platform still trails X in popularity in the United States.
DBTech/BMT/OR
