In recent months, there has been a surge in the popularity of text-based social networks and Twitter alternatives. Platforms like Mastodon, Bluesky, Spill, and T2 have gained traction among users. Now, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has entered the game with the launch of Threads, a text-based social media app linked to Instagram. In this blog, we will explore what Threads is all about and answer some common questions surrounding the app.
What is Threads App? How Do I Create an Account?
Threads is Meta’s answer to Twitter, focusing on text-based communication. To create an account, simply log in using your Instagram credentials. Since Threads is tied to your Instagram account, your verification mark from Instagram will carry over to Threads, even if you have paid for Meta Verified. This allows you to leverage your existing Instagram network to find people to follow on Threads.
How Does Threads Differ From Twitter?
While Threads aims to compete with Twitter, it currently lacks certain Twitter-like features such as long videos, direct messages, and live audio rooms. Additionally, Threads does not have any paid tiers or advertisements at the moment, providing a more streamlined user experience.
Using Threads
Threads is a messaging app available on both iOS and Android devices in over 100 countries. Unfortunately, due to privacy concerns, it’s not available for users in the European Union. When logging into your account with Instagram, you will follow all the same people as before, while also importing usernames, names, and settings like your block list for an uninterrupted experience.
What are the Limitations Of Posting On Threads?
When using Threads, you can create posts of up to 500 characters. The app supports various media formats, including images, videos, and GIFs. Furthermore, you can include up to 10 media items in a single thread post, allowing for more dynamic content sharing.
Can I Use Threads On The Web?
While you can view Thread posts and profiles through web links, you cannot log in to your Threads account and create posts using the web version. This limitation keeps the app primarily focused on mobile usage, ensuring a consistent and optimized experience for its users.
Deleting Your Threads Account
If you wish to delete your Threads account, it’s important to note that, according to Meta’s “Supplemental Privacy Policy,” you must delete your associated Instagram account as well. However, in response to user feedback, Meta has expressed its intention to explore the possibility of allowing users to delete their Threads accounts separately from their Instagram accounts.
What are the Features Missing From Threads?
As Threads is still a relatively new app, there are certain features that are currently missing. These include
- A dedicated “Following” feed
- Support for GIFs
- Full web version support
- Post-editing
- Inline translation
- User-generated Alt image text support
- The ability to view your own liked posts and hashtags.
These features may be introduced in future updates as the app evolves.
FAQs
- Does Threads delete an Instagram account?
Yes, if you delete your Threads account, it will also result in the deactivation of your associated Instagram account, as both are linked together.
- Do I need Instagram for Threads?
Yes, to create a Threads account, you need to sign in with your Instagram account. If you don’t have an Instagram account, you will need to create one first.
- Is the Threads app free?
Threads is a free app that is linked to Instagram. The terms of use and community guidelines that govern Instagram also apply to Threads, as they are both products of Meta.
