Instagram's Threads app recorded 30 million users in less than a day of its launch.
Twitter is going through a rough phase right now.
Last weekend, the company even started limiting the number of tweets people can read, which is widely unliked by most users.
That's when Zuck decided to strike while the iron is hot by introducing Twitter competitor's app, Threads.
Zuck's vision with Threads is to take what Instagram is best at and expand that to text.
Functionality-wise, Instagram Threads is similar to Twitter, with minor differences.
The main feature that separates Threads from Twitter is its decentralized ambitions.
So how does Threads work? Let's dig deeper into how you can use this and what the future holds for this Twitter rival.
What Are Threads In Instagram?
Threads is a text-based decentralized social media platform that is closely connected to Instagram.
It functions as a standalone app, but what's interesting is that you can log in to Threads using your existing Instagram username. Your verification status and handles will be exactly the same as your Instagram profile.
In fact, Instagram will assist you in bringing your current followers to Threads. When any of your followers download the Threads app, they will automatically see an option to follow you on Threads as well.
Additionally, any words or accounts you block on Instagram will also be carried over to Threads, ensuring a similar experience.
One notable difference between Instagram Threads and Twitter is the word limit for posts. Threads allow users to post updates of up to 500 characters, which is more than the 250-character limit that a regular Twitter user gets. This gives you more space to express yourself and share your thoughts.
Your posts can also include links, photos, and videos of up to 5 minutes in length. You can even share a Threads post to your Instagram Story.
How To Create A Profile On Instagram Threads?
Step 1: Download the Threads app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Step 2: At the bottom, you will see the option to Sign in with your Instagram account. Tap on it.
Step 3: Now you can upload a profile picture, write a bio and add links to your profile (or import these from your Instagram account) & tap Continue.
Step 4: Choose whether you want to have a public or private profile at the top and tap Continue.
Step 5: Choose the accounts you wish to follow or tap Follow all to follow all your Instagram accounts on Threads too.
Step 6: Review the terms and policies, and when you're ready, tap Join Threads at the bottom.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- If you are less than 10 (or 18 in some countries), your profile will automatically be a private one.
- Any changes you make to your profile picture, bio, or link on Instagram Threads won't affect your corresponding information on Instagram.
- The profiles you follow and those following you on Threads won't impact your following or followers on Instagram.
- You can edit your Threads profile at any time. For updates like changing your username or personal information, you should edit your profile directly on Instagram.
- If your Instagram account is verified, you can only change your profile picture on Instagram. Your Threads profile will display the verification badge along with the rest of your profile information.
How To Post In Instagram Threads?
Step 1: Press the icon in the middle of the navbar at the bottom of the app.
Step 2: Once you do that, just start typing your message.
Step 3: Tap Add to thread to add a message in the same thread.
Step 4: After you have written your post, you can choose who can respond to it from the menu you get by tapping Anyone can reply.
Step 5: Once done, tap 'Post.'
How To Share In Instagram Threads?
When you are browsing your timeline, you will notice four icons underneath each post:
-
The heart icon is used to like a post
-
The speech bubble icon opens up a field that allows you to send a message in reply to that post.
- The two arrows in a circle icon indicate that you can repost it to your own timeline, similar to retweeting. Once you tap that icon, you will have the option to either repost it directly or quote it with your own commentary.
- The arrow or paper airplane icon is used for sharing the post elsewhere.
How To Search In Instagram Threads?
At the moment, the search function seems to be more focused on finding accounts rather than specific content.
To search:
Step 1: Tap the magnifying glass icon on the navbar.
Step 2: Start typing the account name.
How Is Instagram Threads Similar & Different From Twitter?
Threads and Twitter share a lot of similarities in terms of look and functionality.
- Threads have a generous character limit of 500, similar to the early days of Twitter.
- You can like, reply to, and repost posts on Threads, just like on Twitter.
- This gives it that same instant viral quality that many loved about Twitter.
But, there are some notable differences between Instagram Threads and Twitter.
- Threads currently don't allow you to see content only from people you choose to follow. It blends content from those you want to hear from with what Meta's algorithms think you will like (which may not always be accurate).
- You can't post from the web on Threads. You can use the desktop interface to browse without signing in.
- There are no direct messages, all conversations are out in the open.
- Hashtags are also missing, and the built-in search doesn't make it easy to find interesting topics.
- Due to its connection with Instagram, you have to keep the same username you have on Instagram.
- Some argue that Threads is less private because of its link to Instagram, where people tend to be more identifiable.
Is The Instagram Threads App Safe?
Like other social media platforms, Threads will collect user data. Meta, the parent company of Threads, has stated that apps like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp use this data to improve targeted advertising.
Meta had enforced Instagram's Community Guidelines on Threads to ensure that content and interactions align with Instagram's standards.
Jack Dorsey, the former CEO of Twitter and founder of BlueSky, shared a tweet that highlights the extent of data collection by Instagram Threads. The data collected by these apps can be intrusive and extensive.
All your Threads are belong to us https://t.co/FfrIcUng5O pic.twitter.com/V7xbMOfINt
— jack (@jack) July 4, 2023
While most social media apps gather contact information, browsing history, app usage data, and search history, Threads takes it further by collecting data related to health and fitness, financial information, location history, purchases, and more. Instagram, which is also known for collecting similar data from its users, has a reputation in this regard.
Currently, Instagram Threads is free from targeted ads. But you can assume that this may change in the future, considering the extensive list of permissions that the app requires when downloading.
Maybe the data requirements are a factor why Threads are available in the UK but not yet across the EU.
Clear Out The Noise
Similar to Instagram, you can add hidden words to filter out replies that contain specific words and keep filtering out the unwanted noise. And if you need to manage profiles, you can unfollow, block, restrict, or report them with just a few taps.
If you want to eliminate the noise on your Instagram organic posts and dynamic ads & ban bots and trolls automatically, you should try out Statusbrew for free.
What's Next In Store For Instagram Threads?
The rollout of Threads is in full swing, available for download in over 100 countries.
But what can we expect next?
Meta is working on introducing a range of new features that will enhance your experience on Threads. Their focus is on helping you discover interesting threads and creators. They are also revamping their recommendations in the feed to make it even more personalized and tailored to your interests.
Meta even wants to develop a more robust search function. All these features will make Threads create fun and innovative ways for you to connect with others.
And that's just the beginning.
What are your thoughts on Instagram Threads? Will Threads replace Twitter entirely? Have you joined Threads?
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