In the midst of Twitter’s transformative phase under Elon Musk, Meta has recently introduced Threads as a formidable competitor across 100 countries.
Here, we present an all-encompassing overview of this groundbreaking app. In a move to rival Twitter, tech behemoth Meta has just launched Threads—a stand-alone application.
Taking inspiration from Instagram’s account system, this app allows users to share textual updates, post links, engage in conversations through replies or reports, and participate in public discussions.
In an official statement, Meta expressed their vision for Threads: “Our aim with Threads is to leverage Instagram’s strengths and expand its essence to encompass text, fostering an uplifting and inventive environment to express your thoughts.”
Much like Instagram, users can connect and follow their friends and creators, including those they already follow on Instagram. Threads has been made available in over 100 countries, catering to both iOS and Android users.
This app arrives at a time when Twitter, under Elon Musk’s stewardship, is grappling with generating substantial revenue. Recent media reports indicated that Twitter’s US advertising revenue experienced a staggering 59% drop in April compared to the previous year, despite Musk’s claims of business growth.
Musk, in an effort to “enhance relationships with brands,” brought on board Linda Yaccarino—an executive from NBCUniversal—as Twitter’s chief executive officer.
In recent days, Twitter has imposed limitations on the number of tweets accessible to users. Additionally, access to the Twitter newsdeck will soon be exclusive to those who subscribe to Twitter Blue.
Meta’s Threads is poised to emerge as a direct competitor to Twitter, vying for the attention of news publishers, politicians, and various high-profile individuals.
Threads: Key Features
The user’s feed on Threads comprises posts shared by individuals they follow, alongside recommended content. Posts can stretch up to 500 characters and encompass links, photos, and videos lasting up to 5 minutes. Threads posts can be shared within one’s Instagram story.
These posts can also be shared as links on other platforms. Users possess the ability to manage who can mention them or reply within Threads.
Similar to Instagram, hidden words can be utilized to filter out undesired replies to threads. Profiles can be unfollowed, blocked, restricted, or reported on Threads. Any accounts blocked on Instagram will automatically be blocked on Threads.
Threads: Download Instructions
For iOS users, the app can be downloaded from Apple’s App Store, while Android users can find it on the Google Play Store.
Threads: Navigating Meta’s New App
Download and install the app on your mobile phone. Use your existing Instagram account credentials to log in seamlessly.
Your Instagram username and verification will carry over, with the option to personalize your profile. For individuals under 16 years old (or under 18 years old in select countries), a private profile will be automatically set upon joining Threads.
You can now choose to follow the same accounts you already do on Instagram and discover new individuals. Text messages, threads, and images can be uploaded onto the platform.
Accessibility features, such as screen reader support and AI-generated image descriptions, are also available on Threads, mirroring Instagram’s offerings.
What Lies Ahead?
Meta has further revealed their intention to make Threads compatible with the ActivityPub protocol in the near future.
This development would enable Threads to interoperate with other apps that support the ActivityPub protocol, such as Mastodon and WordPress.
“In addition to our ongoing efforts to ensure Threads is compatible with the ActivityPub protocol, we will soonintroduce several exciting features to enhance your experience of discovering threads and creators aligned with your interests.
This includes improved feed recommendations and a robust search function, allowing you to effortlessly follow real-time topics and trends,” shared the Menlo Park-based company with enthusiasm.
Threads is poised to revolutionize the way we engage with text-based content, offering a dynamic and expressive platform that extends beyond traditional social media boundaries.
With its array of features and Meta’s commitment to ongoing innovation, Threads is set to captivate users and redefine the landscape of online conversations. So, why wait? Join the Threads community today and embark on a journey of boundless creativity and connection.