Tumblr is rolling out a new update to its microblogging platform that will allow its users to send instant messages to one another. The new feature will be released for the Android, iOS and web version of Tumblr.

"You asked for it. Here it comes. Messaging. Real, threaded, instant messaging. It's in the latest Android and iOS apps, and on the web. This is a big launch, and it's going to take a few weeks to get it out to everyone," Tumblr announced the update via its official blog posting.

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The new instant messaging feature will be released to 1,500 Tumblr users only. However, Tumblr said that as these people start sending messages to other users, the feature will be activated on the receiving users' profile as well. This approach will create a domino effect that will allow the feature to find its way to user profiles.

The service will be rolled out to all Tumblr users by December.

Tumblr users who access the website via desktop browsers should look for the smiley balloon icon if they want to use the new messaging feature.

Tumblr app users on iOS and Android are required to update their respective apps in order for the update to push through.

The instant messaging feature is currently limited to text and one-on-one conversation. Tumblr said that the company is working on support for group chats, images and GIFs, and will make its way to the service in the future. The feature is only available to casual users; private and group blogs will not be able to use the feature for now, according to The Verge.

TagsTumblr, Tumblr feature, microblogging, Instant Messaging, social networking