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Meta Debuts Threads, its New Instagram Text-Based Messaging App
About Threads
Meta has officially launched its new messaging app, Threads, which is being marketed as Instagram's "text-based conversation app." The app aims to capture users who have been dissatisfied with Twitter under the ownership of Elon Musk. Threads is now available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play store in over 100 countries. It is designed as a text-based social messaging app, with a similar aesthetic to Twitter, allowing users to post short messages, like, share, and comment on other users' posts.
Features and Functionality
Users can follow the same Threads accounts they follow on Instagram and reply to public posts, similar to how Twitter works. The app allows users to publish threads up to 500 characters long. While text is the primary focus, users can also share links, photos, and videos up to 5 minutes long. Threads posts can be shared via Instagram's story feature and other platforms of choice. The app includes tools for managing conversations, such as the ability to filter out replies containing specific words and block or report profiles.
Competition and Decentralized Technology
The release of Threads comes at a time when Twitter has faced issues under Elon Musk's ownership, leading users to explore alternative messaging apps. BlueSky, a rival app backed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, experienced a surge in traffic after Musk announced Twitter's rate limit, temporarily pausing sign-ups. Threads, like BlueSky, utilizes decentralized technology to give users control and manage their data across other apps that use the same software. While Threads currently uses a decentralized networking technology known as the AT Protocol, it will eventually integrate the ActivityPub software, which powers the Twitter-like app Mastodon.
Meta's Vision for Threads
Threads is Meta's first app envisioned to be compatible with an open social networking protocol. Meta believes that this compatibility could usher in a new era of diverse and interconnected networks. Previously, Meta launched a different version of Threads in 2019, focused on sending short video and photo messages, like Snapchat. However, that version was eventually shuttered in 2021, and users were redirected to use Instagram for their previous Threads messages.
The Potential Impact of Threads on New Businesses
The debut of Threads, Meta's new Instagram text-based messaging app, brings an exciting opportunity for new businesses to leverage this platform for their marketing and communication strategies. With its similarities to Twitter and its aim to capture disgruntled Twitter users, Threads offers a fresh alternative that could attract a significant user base.
One of the key features of Threads is its compatibility with Instagram, allowing users to follow the same accounts they do on Instagram and engage in text-based conversations. This opens up avenues for businesses to expand their reach and create meaningful connections with their audience. By posting short messages and engaging with other users' posts, businesses can foster meaningful conversations and build a loyal customer base.
Moreover, Threads' integration of photos, videos, and links provides businesses with diverse content options to showcase their products or services. With the ability to share posts via Instagram's story feature and other platforms, businesses can amplify their message and increase visibility.
The incorporation of decentralized technology in Threads is another intriguing aspect. This technology empowers users to have more control over their data and offers a level of transparency and security. For new businesses, this can be a selling point, instilling trust and attracting privacy-conscious users.
Overall, Threads presents new businesses with an opportunity to connect with users who are seeking alternative messaging apps. By utilizing its features, businesses can engage in meaningful conversations, share compelling content, and demonstrate their commitment to privacy. As Meta's vision for Threads aligns with an open social networking protocol, there is potential for new businesses to tap into a diverse and interconnected network of users, opening up new avenues for growth and success.
Article First Published at: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/05/meta-launches-instagram-threads-messaging-app-challenging-twitter.html
