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Twitter Adds Group Direct Messages, Video Editing

 & Stephanie Mlot Contributor

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Twitter is as collaborative as it is rapidly changing, which is why the company is rolling out group Direct Messaging and a new mobile video experience.

Take a conversation private or keep in touch with multiple people and brands via the new group message feature, which promises the same privacy of Direct Messages, but in a shared space.

"Whatever the case may be, the ability to converse privately with groups gives you more options for how and with whom you communicate on Twitter," Product Director Jinen Kamdar wrote in a blog post.

Unlike regular Direct Messages, the group function lets users start a conversation with any followers—even if they don't follow each other.

Some folks, however, can't seem to keep their thoughts contained to 140 characters. Instead, they'll post images, GIFs, Vines, audio files, and short videos to connect with people.

Starting today, that process is even easier, with the Twitter app's new video experience. Capture, edit, and share clips directly from the application, without having to import footage or fiddle with third-party editing services.

"We designed our camera to be simple to use so you can capture and share life's most interesting moments as they happen," Kamdar said. "In just a few taps you can add a video to unfolding conversations, share your perspective of a life event, and show your everyday moments instantly, without ever having to leave the app."

As per usual, shared videos are previewed with a thumbnail, and can be played with a single touch.

The "unique" video camera and editing service, as Kamdar called it, allows for up to 30 seconds of video; iPhone owners can also upload videos from the camera roll.

Keep checking Twitter for the updates, which will roll out slowly "in the coming days," beginning today.

The move comes after Twitter started encouraging high-profile users to use Twitter's photo-sharing capabilities rather than linking their Twitter and Instagram accounts.

About Our Expert

Stephanie Mlot

Stephanie Mlot

Contributor

My Experience

  • B.A. in Journalism & Public Relations with minor in Communications Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP)
  • Reporter at The Frederick News-Post (2008-2012)
  • Reporter for PCMag and Geek.com (RIP) (2012-present)

My Areas of Expertise

  • Science & Space
  • Video Streaming Services
  • Social Media
  • Cars & Auto
  • Education

The Tech I Use

  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • MacBook Air (hooked up to a 23-inch Dell monitor)
  • Google Chrome
  • Google Drive
  • Soundcore Life P3 earbuds
  • Various Amazon Echo devices

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