In a world where social media platforms continuously evolve, Instagram has taken a bold step forward with the launch of Threads, its text-based conversation app after months of anticipation.
The social media giant surprised users by releasing Threads almost a day ahead of its scheduled launch date, with the app becoming available for download on both iOS and Android devices.
Instagram aims to use this app to provide a dedicated space for communities to come together, discuss trending topics, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Building on Past Experiences: Threads Version 2019-2021
But before we delve into the current Threads, let’s take a look at the origins of this app built by Meta and the Instagram team.
Interestingly, this is not the first time Instagram has introduced Threads. The social media company actually released a camera-centric messaging app in 2019 under the same name, enabling users to share photos, videos, and status updates exclusively with a select group of close friends.
However, that version of Threads was discontinued in 2021, leading to the current release, which focuses on text-based conversations and community engagement.
Let’s now take a look at the features of Instagram’s Threads app as well as how to make use of them.
Features of Instagram Threads: What Is This App About
Threads is your gateway to a vibrant community of content creators and thought-provoking discussions.
Discover a world of curated content on Threads, tailored to your interests and connections. This dynamic feed showcases threads from the people you follow, while also introducing you to exciting content from new creators waiting to be discovered.
Threads empowers you to share your thoughts, stories, and experiences in a variety of multimedia formats – engage with posts that pack a punch in just 500 characters or less, express yourself fully through links, captivating photos, and videos up to five minutes long.
The power of sharing extends even beyond Threads. Seamlessly integrate your favourite threads into your Instagram Story, letting your followers in on the captivating content you’ve come across. Want to spread the word further? You can also share your own posts as links across other platforms.
How To Sign Up For Instagram Threads
Threads seamlessly integrates with Instagram, allowing users and creators to easily overcome the struggle of building a community.
During the sign-up process, users can utilise their existing Instagram usernames and follow the same individuals they follow on Instagram. Verified Instagram accounts also retain their verified status on Threads, ensuring a seamless transition for influential individuals and brands. This is truly a stroke of genius!
To access Threads, iOS users can simply search for “Threads” or relevant keywords in the Instagram search bar, which triggers the appearance of a ticket emoji. Tapping on the ticket leads users to a spinning ticket display showcasing the Threads logo, their username, and the official launch date and time.
From there, users can click the “Get Threads” button, which redirects iOS users to the App Store to download or sign up for notifications when the app becomes available, depending on your location.
Criticisms Of Instagram Threads
1. Privacy concerns
As with any new social media platform or app, privacy concerns have emerged regarding Threads. Some users have expressed worries over the app’s privacy disclaimers, which outline the potential linkage of substantial amounts of personal data to their identities.
Former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and others have publicly voiced their apprehensions about the data collection practices of Threads and its parent company, Meta (formerly Facebook).
The attention garnered by these concerns has actually led to the delay of the app’s launch in the European Union (EU) until further privacy issues are addressed.
2. Rip-off of Twitter
Media coverage had drawn parallels between Threads and Twitter, with some investors even dubbing it a potential “Twitter killer.” Threads came in at an opportune time when Twitter is currently facing public criticism from users who are upset over Elon Musk’s erratic behaviour and political views.
The ex-CEO and owner of Twitter had recently announced restrictions on the number of tweets users can view per day, citing concerns about excessive data scraping. Additionally, Twitter has revealed plans to place its popular user dashboard TweetDeck behind a paywall in the coming month.
As the battle for dominance between Twitter and Threads unfolds, only time will tell which platform users prefer.
Early Adopters & Influencer Engagement On The Treads App by Instagram
However, despite all the concerns, Threads already attracted a wide range of users.
Celebrities such as Shakira and Gordon Ramsay have embraced the app, garnering hundreds of followers in a short period.
Well-known brands like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Discovery have also joined Threads, utilising the app to engage with their audiences in a new way. Additionally, early access was granted to Instagram influencers like Mummy influencers and kid influencers, who received guides on pre-launch activities to generate excitement and anticipation.
Be At The Forefront Of Social Media Marketing With First Page
With the launch of Threads, Instagram has ventured into new territory, providing users with a dedicated platform for text-based conversations and community building.
Despite the various concerns, the quick adoption of Threads from prominent figures and brands hints at its potential as a platform for engagement and discussion. We reckon the app represents a step forward in connecting people and fostering meaningful conversations within digital communities as Instagram continues to evolve.
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