Twitter will also add a call facility shortly.

Confirming the development, Musk tweeted: "With latest version of app, you can DM reply to any message in the thread (not just most recent) and use any emoji reaction."

"Release of encrypted DMs V1.0 should happen tomorrow. This will grow in sophistication rapidly. The acid test is that I could not see your DMs even if there was a gun to my head," he said.

Musk said: "Coming soon will be voice and video chat from your handle to anyone on this platform, so you can talk to people anywhere in the world without giving them your phone number."

The move comes as Musk, who took control of Twitter six months ago, looks for ways to return the platform to growth, reports CNN.