This week, Meta introduced its latest offering, Threads. A direct competitor to Twitter, this new social media platform provides users with a seamless and engaging experience while leveraging the benefits of an existing built-in audience. But, is Threads here to stay? Or, is this just another doomed attempt to take down Twitter?
What is Threads?
Threads is a mobile-only social media platform developed by Meta. It functions – and looks – almost exactly as Twitter, creating a dedicated space for users to engage in conversations.
To sign up, users need to download the Threads mobile app from their device’s app store. Once installed, users can log in using their existing Instagram credentials. Threads seamlessly integrates with Instagram, importing the user’s followers and creating a personalized experience. Users can then customize their profile and start sharing moments exclusively with their chosen inner circle. Like Twitter, there is a character limit per post. On Threads it’s 500 characters (Twitter is 280).
It’s important to call out how linked Threads is with Instagram. First, you cannot sign up for Threads unless you have an Instagram. You also cannot customize your handle on Threads; it will be the same as your Instagram handle. If you eventually decide to delete your Threads account, Meta will delete your Instagram account.
Should You Should Sign Up for Threads
Unlike other attempts to take Twitter’s market share, Threads offers something unique: a built-in audience. Rather than joining a new platform and hoping your followers join, this feature pulls your followers directly from Instagram, enticing big names and brands to join. And, based on initial reports, this strategy is working.
In the first seven hours, 10 million people joined Threads, according to Mark Zuckerberg.
While Threads offers unique advantages, there are reasons to be cautious. Threads is currently only available as a mobile app, limiting accessibility for those who prefer desktop usage. Data concerns associated with Meta may also be a consideration for privacy-conscious users. Additionally, the platform utilizes algorithms to curate content, which means posts may not appear in chronological order, potentially impacting how many people see your content.
Threads presents an opportunity for social media users who are fed up with Twitter and looking for a new alternative. With platforms like Bluesky and Mastodon failing to gain significant traction, Threads feels like the first true Twitter alternative. Twitter won’t go away, but it’ll be interesting to see how Elon Musk responds.
Our recommendation? If you can accept the fact that Threads is a Meta product, now is the time to join Threads. Start learning the platform. We think it’s here to stay.
Contact us today if you’d like to discuss how Threads might fit into your social strategy.