Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, has introduced Threads. It is a microblogging platform that is considered an Instagram alternative. It has been causing a stir since July 2023.
Threads allows users to publish short text messages. These can be up to 500 characters long. The connection to Instagram makes it easier for users to get started.
Threads has been available in the EU since December 2023. Over 100 million users signed up within a short space of time. Threads focuses on topics such as entertainment, sport, music and fashion.
Key insights
- Threads is a new social network from Meta
- Close link with Instagram makes it easy to get started
- Posts can be up to 500 characters long
- Focus on entertainment, sports, music and fashion
- Rapid user growth with over 100 million registrations
What is Threads and how it works
Threads is a new social network from Meta. It has been available in Europe since December 14, 2023. Users can share short text messages, images and videos there.
It is similar to X (formerly Twitter), but has its own special features.
How it works and main features
Threads allow users to share messages up to 500 characters long. This is longer than X. Videos can be up to 5 minutes long.
A special feature is the use of tags instead of hashtags. These tags are displayed in blue and help with the search.
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Login and link to Instagram
To log in, you need an Instagram account. This makes logging in easier, but restricts its use. A Threads account can only be deleted if the Instagram account is also deleted.
Post types and interaction options
Threads offers various ways to share content. Users can share texts, images, videos and links. Interaction takes place through likes, comments and the sharing of posts.
Users can also report, mute or block content. A special function is the publication of posts on Threads and simultaneously as a story on Instagram.
| Function | Threads | X (Twitter) |
|---|---|---|
| Character limit | 500 | 280 (4000 for Premium) |
| Video length | Up to 5 minutes | Varies depending on subscription |
| Sign in | Instagram account required | Independent registration |
| Tags | tags | hashtags |
Differences and similarities to X (formerly Twitter)
Threads and X are two social networks with differences. Here are the most important points in comparison.
Text length and media functions
Threads allows 500 characters per post. X has 280 characters for standard users and up to 25,000 for premium subscribers. Threads allows up to ten media elements to be uploaded, X only four.
Feed system and algorithm
X has better search functions and filters. Threads launched without a search engine and delayed the web version until August 2024. X shows ads, Threads is ad-free.
Data protection and privacy settings
Threads collects more data than X, which raises privacy concerns. Both offer privacy settings. Threads requires an Instagram account, X has more login options.
Integration into the Fediverse
Threads plans Fediverse integration, which enables connections to other platforms. X remains a closed system.
| Feature | Threads | X (formerly Twitter) |
|---|---|---|
| Character limit | 500 | 280 (25,000 for Premium) |
| Media elements per post | 10 | 4 |
| User base (MAU) | 130 million | 368 million |
| Advertising | No | Yes |
| Fediverse integration | Planned | No |
Conclusion
Threads has made a promising start as a microblogging platform in Germany. It connects closely with Instagram, which makes it easy to gain new followers. Young people between the ages of 20 and 45 find it particularly attractive.
The future of Threads depends on user engagement. With 500 characters and the ability to share photos and videos, it offers plenty of room for creativity. The introduction of private messages could set it apart from other platforms.
Threads shows a trend towards genuine and spontaneous content. In contrast, classic Instagram posts and influencer marketing are less popular. For companies, this means finding new ways to communicate.
Whether Threads will be successful in the long term remains to be seen. Integration into the Fediverse could strengthen its position. It will be exciting to see how Threads develops between now and 2024 and what role it plays in the social media world.
FAQ
What is Threads and who is behind it?
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