Meta Introduces New Chat Themes for Facebook Messenger and Instagram DMs

Meta has rolled out three new chat themes for Facebook Messenger and Instagram Direct Messages, including the “Supergirl” design, according to a report from TechCrunch. The update, first noted in a September 2023 post by Meta’s product team, aims to enhance user customization options for private conversations.

What Are the New Chat Themes?

The three new themes, as detailed in Meta’s official blog, are “Supergirl,” “Cyberpunk,” and “Retro.” Each theme alters the visual appearance of chat interfaces, offering users distinct aesthetics for their messages. The “Supergirl” theme, for instance, features a vibrant, superhero-inspired color palette, while “Cyberpunk” leans into neon tones and futuristic design elements. “Retro” mimics the look of 1980s technology, complete with pixelated graphics and vintage fonts.

According to a Meta spokesperson, the themes are part of a broader effort to “give users more creative control over their digital interactions.” The update is available globally, though some regions may experience delays in deployment.

Why Did Meta Add These Themes?

Meta’s decision to introduce new chat themes aligns with its ongoing focus on user engagement. A 2023 report by Sensor Tower found that customization features in messaging apps correlate with increased daily active users. By allowing users to personalize their chats, Meta hopes to differentiate its platforms from competitors like WhatsApp and Telegram.

The move also reflects broader trends in social media. As of 2023, 62% of users aged 18–34 in the U.S. reported using themed chat interfaces, according to a survey by Pew Research Center. Meta’s update could help retain younger audiences amid growing competition.

How Do Users Access the Themes?

Users can access the new themes through the “Chat Themes” section in the settings of both Facebook Messenger and Instagram DMs. The features are available on iOS and Android devices, with desktop support expected in a future update. Meta has also integrated a “Preview” mode, allowing users to test themes before applying them permanently.

Some users have raised concerns about data privacy, though Meta has stated that the themes do not collect additional user information. “The customization options are entirely client-side, meaning no data is sent to Meta’s servers,” a company spokesperson said in a September 2023 statement.

What’s Next for Meta’s Messaging Features?

Analysts speculate that Meta may expand its chat customization options in 2024. A leaked internal document from August 2023, obtained by The Verge, suggests the company is exploring AI-driven theme suggestions based on user behavior. “We’re experimenting with dynamic themes that adapt to a user’s mood or activity,” the document states.

However, the company has not confirmed these plans. For now, the focus remains on the current update, which users have largely welcomed. “It’s a small but fun addition,” said one Instagram user in a Reddit thread. “I love the retro vibe—it feels nostalgic.”

FAQ

What are the new chat themes introduced by Meta?

Meta added three themes: “Supergirl,” “Cyberpunk,” and “Retro,” each offering distinct visual styles for Facebook Messenger and Instagram DMs.

Are the themes available globally?

The update is available worldwide, though regional rollouts may vary. Users in some areas may need to update their apps to access the features.

Do the themes affect privacy?

No, Meta has confirmed that the themes do not collect user data. They operate entirely on the user’s device.