Twitter has updated its Direct Messaging feature, enabling users to begin receiving Direct Messages (DMs) from anyone.
Previously DMs could only be sent to accounts that were following each other. With the new update, however, DMs can be sent to anyone (regardless of affiliation or lack of affiliation). For users that are fearful this new update will bring a bunch of spam to their Twitter inbox, it is important to point out that the social network requires users to change their settings before they are able to receive a DM from anyone. Moreover, users who change their DM settings to receive messages from anyone still have the ability to block people.
"We hope these changes help you connect more easily - and directly - on Twitter with the people, causes and businesses you care about most," Twitter states in its announcement.
Twitter's update has begun rolling out across the globe, even on mobile devices. In fact, users will see a new DM button on profile pages (see image) on Android and iPhones when they are able to send a DM to someone.