Threads: Everything you need to know about Meta’s Twitter rival

Social media giant Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has recently unveiled its latest offering, Threads, a new app aimed at capturing the attention of those disenchanted with the changes on platforms like Twitter. With the ever-evolving landscape of online conversations, Threads seeks to provide a fresh approach to text-based interactions while leveraging the immense user base of Meta’s popular photo and video-oriented platform, Instagram. 

Well, this blog post will serve as your go-to resource for understanding everything about Meta’s intriguing new Twitter rival, Threads.

What is Threads by Instagram?

Threads is a social media app developed by Meta that is built on top of Instagram. It focuses on text-based conversations and allows users to post 500-character updates called “threads.” Similar to Twitter, users can mention others, reply to posts, and even quote or “repost” threads. While Threads leverages Instagram’s user base, it operates separately, requiring users to sign up with an Instagram account. 

When was Instagram Threads launched?

Threads was launched on July 6, 2023. The app is available in 100 countries, excluding the European Union.

How do I get on Threads?

To sign up for Threads, you need to have an Instagram account. Once you have an Instagram account, you can download the Threads app for iOS or Android and set up your account using the same name as your Instagram account.

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Does Threads work just like Twitter?

Threads is not explicitly positioned as a Twitter clone, but it shares many similarities with Twitter. It focuses on text conversations, limits posts to 500 characters, allows mentioning other users using the “@” symbol, and enables reposting others’ threads.

Do you need an Instagram for threads?

Yes, you need an Instagram account to use Threads. Threads is a standalone app, but it is linked to your Instagram account. This means that you can use your Instagram username and password to sign in to Threads, and your Threads profile will be linked to your Instagram profile.

How does the Threads feed work?

The Threads feed consists of a mix of accounts you choose to follow and algorithmically generated suggestions. It’s not possible to customize the feed to show only posts from accounts you follow, and the order of posts is determined by the Threads algorithm.

Can I post photos and videos on Threads?

Yes, you can include photos and videos in Threads, but they won’t appear as Instagram posts or Reels. Threads and Instagram are not natively integrated.

Can I edit posts on Threads Instagram app?

No, currently, it is not possible to edit posts on the Threads app. However, you can delete the post if needed.

How to get verified on Threads?

Fortunately, getting verified on Threads is straightforward since verification is handled through your Instagram account. In short, if you are already verified on Instagram, you will automatically be verified on Threads. However, if you are not verified on Instagram, you will need to go through the verification process on Instagram first. Once verified on Instagram, you will be automatically granted verification on Threads as well. It’s important to note that Threads does not have a separate verification system; it relies on the verification status of your connected Instagram account.

Will Threads have ads?

At launch, Threads does not have ads. However, Meta has not ruled out the possibility of introducing ads in the future.

How does Threads moderate content?

Threads applies the same content rules as Instagram. It prohibits praising terrorist or hate groups, firearm sales, and threats against individuals or groups. Users under 16 are defaulted into a private account. Users can also limit replies to their threads to only people they follow or mention.

Do hashtags work on Threads?

No, Threads does not utilize hashtags as a means of organizing or searching for specific content. Unlike Twitter, which heavily relies on hashtags, Threads does not have a dedicated feature for users to search for text or phrases through hashtags. Instead, Threads focuses on text-based conversations and interactions without the use of hashtags as a core functionality.

What does Threads offer for creators?

Threads aims to lower the risk for creators who want to try a new text-based social media app. Creators can encourage their Instagram fan base to join Threads, but followers on Instagram will still need to opt-in to follow them on Threads.

Summary

In its early days, Threads has already generated significant interest and user engagement, with people eagerly exploring its text-based social media experience. However, it remains to be seen how it will perform in the days to come. As with any new platform, it’s best to wait and see how Threads evolves and resonates with users over time. The future holds exciting possibilities, and we can eagerly anticipate how Threads will shape the social media landscape in the days ahead.

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Bibek Sapkota

I'm Bibek | Tech Enthusiast & Lifelong Learner. | Playing on the Web for the Past Few Years as a Full-Time Tech Blogger. At TechnoBite, I curate insightful content ranging from how-to guides to in-depth tech reviews. Passionate about continuous learning and sharing knowledge, my mission is to empower my audience with valuable information to navigate the ever-evolving world of technology.

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