In an effort to expand its reach and provide users with more options for social interaction, Meta’s Instagram team has unveiled the Threads app, a new text-based social media platform.
Threads app aims to offer an alternative to Twitter, allowing communities to gather and discuss a wide range of topics in real-time. With its anticipated release on July 6, Threads is set to leverage Instagram’s existing user base, enabling seamless connectivity and attempting to foster lively discussions.
[Update: Threads app is now available on iOS and Android. Users can download the app from their respective app stores.]
Meta to take on Twitter with new social media platform, “Threads”
Threads is not entirely new to Instagram, as it previously existed as a companion app to compete with Snapchat. However, the previous version was discontinued in late 2021. Now, Instagram is reviving Threads with a different purpose, positioning it as a formidable contender in the Twitter space.
Threads will function as a standalone app, independent of Instagram, while maintaining a close connection to its parent platform. Users will be able to download the app and link it to their Instagram account. The interface allows liking, commenting, reposting, and sharing of posts. Additionally, users can customize their audience settings, choosing who can reply to their posts—whether everyone, people they follow, or only those mentioned in the post.
The app aims to bring together communities passionate about various subjects, providing a platform for discussions and trend predictions. Users can follow their favorite creators, connect directly with like-minded individuals, or cultivate their own loyal following to share ideas, opinions, and creativity with the world. By integrating Instagram’s existing follower and following lists, Threads offers a seamless transition for users, eliminating the need to rebuild their communities from scratch.
Rumors emerged about Threads potentially being a decentralized platform, as leaked slides hinted at compatibility with Mastodon, a decentralized network built on ActivityPub. However, the validity of this speculation remains uncertain due to Instagram’s centralized structure. It’s worth noting that Meta has had varied success with previous side apps, with some being discontinued. Nevertheless, the platform presents an advantageous opportunity for Instagram to leverage Twitter’s recent setbacks and provide users with an alternative social media experience.
In conclusion, Threads aims to establish its unique position in the social media landscape with a focus on leveraging existing follower networks. However, the success of Meta’s latest venture ultimately rests in the hands of users, who will decide how much they embrace this new addition to their digital social experience. In addition, it has yet to be seen if the platform will be able to offer a strong alternative to Twitter.
Instagram has also added an easter egg to its app to tease the imminent launch of the new service. Searching for Threads on Instagram brings up a 3D ticket that shows the local launch date and time for the new app.
Looking forward to using Threads soon. Instagram has an Easter egg in the app teasing the launch. pic.twitter.com/Nc7SDDCs7E
— Imran Hussain (@imhassan) July 4, 2023
