Meta’s Threads has emerged as a potential replacement for Twitter, and it’s not surprising that other social media giants are eager to fill the void. This new platform from Meta allows users to write and comment on posts in a manner similar to Twitter. Early user profiles on the Threads website have provided a sneak peek into how the platform will function.
Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, has used his initial posts to shed light on the purpose and features of Threads. He shared an image illustrating how users can limit replies, emphasizing the goal of creating an open and respectful space for conversations. In addition to commenting, users will have the ability to Repost individual Threads, akin to Retweeting on Twitter.
In the future, Threads will integrate with the Fediverse, enabling users to follow and engage with individuals on other services such as Mastodon. Mosseri confirmed that Meta is “committed” to supporting the ActivityPub protocol, although the integration could not be completed prior to the platform’s launch. He explained that being open allows users to retain their audience and seamlessly transition to another server if they decide to leave Threads or face de-platforming.
Threads has already attracted attention from notable figures, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Mosseri, and celebrities like Shakira and Gordon Ramsay, as well as various influencers who received early access. However, the current follower counts on most profiles are relatively modest, with only a few hundred followers, while Zuckerberg and Mosseri have a couple of thousand.
Starting from the morning of July 6th, Threads will be accessible on the web and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play Store in the United States and the United Kingdom. Availability in other European countries may be delayed due to more stringent data privacy regulations imposed by the EU. Meanwhile, Meta employees haven’t shied away from praising their own creation and taking subtle jabs at Twitter, as evidenced by the first post from Meta product designer Peter Franko on the site.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Twitter alternative
What is Meta’s Threads?
Meta’s Threads is a social media platform developed by Meta as an alternative to Twitter. It allows users to write, comment, and repost threads, similar to Twitter’s functionality.
What sets Threads apart from Twitter?
Threads aims to create an open and civil space for people to have conversations. It emphasizes respectful discussions and provides features such as the ability to limit replies and repost individual threads.
Will Threads integrate with other platforms?
Yes, Threads has plans to integrate with the Fediverse, allowing users to follow and interact with individuals on other services like Mastodon. Meta is committed to supporting the ActivityPub protocol.
Can I take my audience with me if I decide to leave Threads?
Absolutely. Meta understands the importance of user freedom. If you ever choose to leave Threads or face de-platforming, being an open platform enables you to take your audience with you to another server.
When will Threads be available and where?
Threads will be available on the web and can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play Store starting from the morning of July 6th. Initially, it will be available in the US and UK, with potential delays in other European countries due to stricter data privacy rules.
Who can currently access Threads?
Meta employees, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg, and various influencers have been given early access. However, the current user base is limited, reflected in follower counts, with most profiles having only a few hundred followers.
More about Twitter alternative
- Meta
- Threads website
- Mastodon
- ActivityPub protocol
- App Store
- Google Play Store
- EU data privacy rules
5 comments
wow, so excitd 2 get early access on threads! gonna repost my fav threads and build my audience. luv that they r focusd on civil convos. gonna show my followers how 2 limit replies 4 sure. kudos 2 meta on this launch!
meta’s threads sounds like a gr8 alternative 2 twtr! finally, sumthin new 2 try out. hope it catches on and brings sum positive discussions. can’t wait 2 check it out on the web and download it on my appstore!
finally, sum1 understands privacy! glad meta is workin on supporting activitypub. gotta protect my data. hope they navigate the EU rules. thumbs up 2 meta’s commitment 2 opennss.
mastodon integration? sounds cool. i’ve been wanting 2 connect with ppl on different platforms. meta’s open approach is refreshing. hope they fix the integrashn soon. wanna be able 2 follow evrywhere!
oh, so mark zuckerberg and other meta big shots r already posting on threads? that’s interesting. wonder how it’ll stack up against twitter. can’t wait 2 see if it takes off. gonna give it a go when it’s available.