Meta’s new Threads app has gained 100 million sign-ups in its first few weeks. Is it worth joining? Here’s what we know so far.
Threads App by Meta: What Is It and Should You Sign Up?
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In recent months, several apps have emerged as contenders in the microblogging space, all aiming to rival Twitter’s dominance. One of these newcomers is Threads, a social media app developed by Meta, the company behind Facebook. In this article, we will explore Threads, let you know how you can get started on the app, and provide you with a balanced overview of its features and how it compares to Twitter. Let’s dive in and discover whether Threads could be the right app for you!
What is the Threads app?
Threads is a recently-launched social media app brought to you by Meta. Thanks to it’s integration with Meta’s largest app, Instagram, Threads has amassed a staggering 100 million sign-ups within a few days of its release.
With a user interface similar to Twitter, Threads allows you to post and share text, images, and videos. You can also engage with other users’ posts through replies, reposts, and likes.
Meta describes the new platform as “a text-based conversation app, offering a new way to connect and share content.”
How do I sign up for Threads?
Signing up for Threads is a seamless process, which has likely contributed to its rapid user growth. You can use your existing Instagram login to make an account, allowing you to keep your username, followers, and verification status. This integration with Instagram simplifies the onboarding experience and makes it easier for users to join the community.
To sign up to Threads, all you have to do is install the official app from your App or Play Store.
Can I really not delete my Threads account?
Initially, concerns were raised about the inability to delete a Threads account without deleting your accompanying Instagram account as well. This is technically true. Currently, you can deactivate your Threads account but you cannot remove it completely without wiping out your Instagram account too. However, Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, has acknowledged this issue. In a post on Threads, he advised that Meta is actively working to enable users to completely delete their Threads account while maintaining their Instagram presence.
How does it line up to Twitter?
In terms of age, Twitter has a significant head start, being around for 16 years and the “original” micro-blogging platform. Threads is, of course, a new addition. While both platforms share similarities, there are still notable differences.
Unlike Twitter, Threads does not offer a chronological feed consisting only of posts from accounts you follow. Instead, content from suggested accounts of interest are interspersed on your timeline.
Threads does, however, allow users to post longer videos (up to five minutes in length compared to Twitter’s two minutes and 20 seconds). Additionally, Threads supports up to 10 images per post and features a visually engaging carousel format, similar to static Instagram feed posts.
While Twitter boasts communication features such as direct messaging, hashtags, a web client interface, and multi-account management, Threads lacks these functionalities. However, once again Adam Mosseri has confirmed that Meta is actively working to implement these features in Threads at some point in the future, aiming to enhance the user experience and expand its capabilities. He also predicts that the app will have some advertising capabilities, which could be a game changer for brands. Although, Mosseri admits that building the core foundation of the platform is currently top priority “ahead of making money”.
Meta’s latest app release presents an exciting new option for microblogging enthusiasts looking for a new outlet. With its integration with Instagram and emphasis on text-based conversations, Threads certainly offers a fresh, simple approach to connecting and sharing content. While it may not currently match the extensive features available on Twitter, the commitment of Meta to improve and expand Threads suggests a promising future. Whether you choose to join Threads ultimately depends on your preferences and desired user experience.
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