Meet Threads, Twitter’s Newest Rival

Meta’s new app is already a notable competitor to Twitter, but will it last?

A woman explaining something. Threads is Meta’s recently released social media app that allows for text updates and public conversations in the form of “threads.” Many see it as Meta’s version of Twitter, and it’s already surpassed 100 million users, gaining the attention of companies, social media managers, and Instagram users since its launch.

However, it seems like users are unaware of how to smoothly transition to essentially a whole new social media platform. Whether you’re a new user or a curious onlooker, here are 8 things you should know about Threads.

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1. You create a Threads account with your Instagram username and password.

Threads and Instagram are interconnected apps, so when you download Threads, you won’t sign up but rather login with your Instagram account.

2. You’ll have the same followers on Threads as you do on Instagram.

Once you log into your account on Threads, you have the option to import your Instagram bio into the app, as well as the option to follow all accounts you follow on Instagram. This means all of your followers who logged into Threads and accepted this option will also be following you.

3. Posts can be up to 500 characters long and include links, photos, and videos.

You have the ability to add links, photos, and short videos to your Threads. However, they are mainly text and have a limit of 500 characters.

4. Threads uses the same safety and control features as Instagram.

You’re able to mute specific accounts as well as report, block, and unfollow users/accounts just like you are able to on Instagram.

5. You can only delete your Threads account by deleting your Instagram account.

If you decided Threads isn’t for you, you’re allowed to deactivate your Threads account. However, you can’t delete your Threads account unless you delete your Instagram account.

6. Big retailers are signing up for Threads while brands are more hesitant.

According to Forbes, 9 out of the top 10 big retailers have dove right into the new app, greeting a Threads account for their companies. However, brands have been more hesitant to take the leap. Out of the top 5 most popular consumer brands, only 1 (Reese’s) has signed up. The same goes for the top 10 most popular fashion brands, only Nike can be found on Threads.

7. Brands are doubling down on humor on Threads.

If you’re not sure how to enter the Threads scene, you’re not the only one. However, it seems that companies and brands have started to make a name for themselves on the app using… humor. Essentially they are doing what Wendy’s did on Twitter and using humor to establish their presence and to gain more followers.

8. Threads don’t show in chronological order.

Threads’ algorithm-driven timeline means you won’t be seeing Threads as they occur. Instead, its algorithm is similar to that of Instagram. Your feed will depend on a number of factors such as likes, popularity, and many other things, not just on the timing of each Thread. This means journalists who want to use Threads for breaking news or story telling, might be out of luck. There’s no telling when a breaking news thread might actually be seen.

The future of Threads

Threads has gained over 100 million users since July 10, 2023. With Twitter being on the rocks, Meta has swooped in and created their own version of the social media platform. While the concept is similar to Twitter, Threads is still extremely new and lacking some of the well-known Twitter features.

But, the app does provide benefits, including automatically linking your Instagram followers so you don’t have to start from scratch on a new app. The real question is, though, will Threads last? The app is still so new it’s hard to tell if it’ll be the next big thing or short-lived.

Stay tuned for more updates on Meta Threads and suggestions on whether you should be joining the app or not!

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