Meta introduces Threads, a new microblogging platform that extends Instagram’s functionality to text-based content, allowing users to engage in real-time conversations and follow creators who share their interests. Threads prioritizes user safety and control while promising compatibility with open, interoperable social networks for a more diverse and connected online experience.
KUALA LUMPUR, 7 July 2023 – Meta, the company behind social media giants Facebook and Instagram, has introduced Threads, a groundbreaking app developed by the Instagram team. Threads provides users with a dedicated space for real-time updates, public conversations, and creative expression through text-based content.
With billions of people already connected through photos and videos on Instagram, Threads aims to expand the platform’s success by incorporating text-based interactions, fostering a positive and imaginative environment for users to share their ideas. Similar to Instagram, Threads allows users to follow and connect with friends and creators who share their interests, including individuals beyond their Instagram network. The app also offers a suite of safety features and user controls to ensure a secure and personalized experience.
The seamless integration of Instagram and Threads simplifies the onboarding process, allowing users to log in to Threads using their existing Instagram account. Users can carry over their Instagram username and verification, while having the option to customize their Threads profile. For users under 16 (or 18 in certain countries), Threads automatically defaults to a private profile. The app is equipped with core accessibility features such as screen reader support and AI-generated image descriptions, ensuring inclusivity.
Threads offers a dynamic feed that includes posts from followed accounts as well as recommended content from new creators, enabling users to explore a variety of perspectives. Posts can be up to 500 characters long and can include links, photos, and videos up to 5 minutes in length. Sharing Threads posts to Instagram Stories or other platforms is effortless, facilitating seamless content distribution.
To foster productive conversations, Threads provides users with tools to control who can mention and reply to them within the app. Similar to Instagram, users can filter out replies containing specific words using the hidden words feature. Profiles can be unfollowed, blocked, restricted, or reported via the three-dot menu, with account blocks automatically applying to both Threads and Instagram.
Safety remains a top priority for Meta, and the app strictly enforces Instagram’s Community Guidelines for content and interactions. With a long-standing commitment to user protection, Meta has invested over $16 billion in teams and technologies focused on safeguarding users and preserving community integrity.
In a groundbreaking move, Meta plans to make Threads compatible with the ActivityPub protocol, established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), to enable interoperability with other apps embracing this open social networking standard. This integration will allow users on Threads to interact with individuals on other ActivityPub-supported platforms, creating an interconnected network with unparalleled diversity. Meta also envisions providing users with the option to transfer their content from Threads to other services, further empowering individuals to shape their online presence.
Threads is now available for download on iOS and Android devices in over 100 countries through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Meta will continue to enhance the app by introducing new features, including improved recommendations in the feed and a robust search function for real-time topic and trend tracking.
Meta invites users to join Threads and share their valuable feedback as the company continues to innovate and foster meaningful connections within the app.
