**Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta Launches Threads, Taking on Twitter**
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Meta, has launched a new app called Threads that aims to compete with Twitter. The Instagram-based app allows users to share text updates and engage in public conversations. This move is part of Meta’s strategy to expand on Instagram’s success and create a positive and creative space for users to express their ideas. Threads has been made available in over 100 countries for both iOS and Android devices.
**Seamless Integration with Instagram**
To ensure a seamless user experience, Threads allows users to log into their Instagram accounts, with their usernames and verification settings automatically carrying over. Users also have the option to customize and create a new profile on the app. Unlike Twitter, Threads does not restrict non-users from viewing posts or impose limitations on the number of posts users can see.
**Curated Feeds**
Threads populates user feeds with content from people they follow on Instagram, as well as “recommended content” from Meta. This feature ensures that users can easily engage with the content they are most interested in.
**Expanded Features for Text-based Content**
While Threads is primarily focused on text and dialogue, it offers almost all the features available on Instagram. These include screen readers, AI-generated image descriptions, public or private account settings, and safety features such as blocking, reporting, and restricting. Any accounts that users have blocked on Instagram will also be blocked on Threads.
**Extended Content Limitations**
Users on Threads can post up to 500 characters of text, which is significantly more than Twitter’s 280-character limit. Additionally, users can include links, photos, and videos up to five minutes in length in their posts. Furthermore, posts made on Threads can also be shared on Instagram stories or shared as a link.
**Privacy Protections for Young Users**
To ensure the safety and privacy of young users, those who are under 16 years old (or 18 years old in certain countries) will automatically have a private profile when they join Threads. This feature aligns with Meta’s commitment to creating a secure and controlled environment for its users.
**Future Updates and Compatibility**
Meta has plans to introduce more features to Threads in the near future. These updates will include improvements to the feed recommendations and search capabilities. Additionally, Threads will be compatible with ActivityPub, enabling interoperability with open-source social networks like Mastodon. This compatibility will allow users to follow and interact with Threads users without needing a Threads account, fostering diverse and interconnected networks.
**Embracing a Decentralized Approach**
Meta spokespersons have emphasized the importance of a decentralized approach in guiding the future of online platforms. This approach resembles the protocols governing email and the web itself. By supporting app compatibility and allowing other apps to set their own community standards and content moderation policies, Meta aims to accelerate innovation and experimentation in the social media landscape.
In conclusion, Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta has launched Threads, a new app that directly competes with Twitter. Threads offers an expanded platform for text updates and public conversations, building on Instagram’s success. With its seamless integration with Instagram, curated feeds, extended features, and focus on privacy, Threads aims to provide a positive and creative space for users to express their ideas. Meta’s future plans include introducing more features and ensuring interoperability with other social networks.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings