Instagram’s latest offering, Threads, has arrived, aiming to provide users with a Twitter-like experience. The app is now available for download on Android and iOS platforms, but it requires an existing Instagram account for login. The app offers seamless integration with Instagram, importing your username and verification status. You can follow the same Instagram accounts or choose from suggested profiles.
Getting Started with Threads
To use Threads, you need an Instagram account as it is linked to the platform. Upon signing up, your username and verification status will be transferred from Instagram. You have the option to follow the same accounts or manually select from suggested profiles. Additionally, you can set your profile to either public or private based on your preferences.
Posting and Interacting on Threads
Threads enables users to share text, videos, and photos. Unlike Twitter’s 280-character limit, Threads provides a 500-character limit for posts. Users can organize conversations as threaded discussions under each post and comment. As you scroll through your feed, you can view the number of replies and likes on each post. Similar to Twitter, you have the option to “Repost” and “Quote” a Thread, as well as cross-post it to your Instagram story and feed. Furthermore, you can even share Thread links on Twitter.
Current Limitations
While the app offers Twitter-like features, it lacks certain functionalities present on the microblogging platform. Notably, there is no direct messaging (DM) option for communication with other Threads users, and GIFs cannot be posted. Additionally, if you manage multiple Instagram accounts, there is no account switching feature available within the Threads app. Furthermore, Threads does not support hashtags, making it impossible to track trends on the platform. It remains uncertain whether Meta, the parent company of Instagram, will introduce these features in the future.
Integration with the Fediverse
Meta plans to incorporate Threads into the fediverse, a network of interconnected servers operated by third parties. Through a protocol called ActivityPub, Threads will be able to communicate with other servers that support this protocol. This opens up possibilities for users to connect with individuals on other fediverse platforms like Mastodon, which are not under Meta’s control.
Conclusion: A Unique Blend of Twitter-like Features
Instagram’s new app presents users with an opportunity to experience Twitter-like functionalities within a familiar Instagram environment. With its seamless integration, users can conveniently share content, engage in threaded discussions, and cross-post to Instagram. However, certain Twitter features, such as DMs, GIFs, and hashtags, are currently absent from Threads. As Meta aims to expand the app’s capabilities and integrate it into the fediverse, users can anticipate enhanced connectivity and communication across various platforms.
