New Meta app aims to replace Twitter. But what is it all about?
Threads is Meta’s new app which aims to dethrone Twitter as the go-to microblogging site. Following its launch this morning, its founder Mark Zuckerberg claims to have logged more than 10 million sign-ups. Though since that announcement, the number has shot up to 37 million users.
The app, a rival to Twitter, expects to provide an alternative platform following complaints regarding Twitter allowing controversial far-right figures to return, and reinstating banned accounts in violation of the platform’s terms and conditions. Meta brought forward it’s launch by 15 hours, presumably in response to Twitter’s new viewing rules.
On their website, Meta says Threads is “…built by the Instagram team, for sharing text updates and joining public conversations” and also claimed: “We’re working to soon make Threads compatible with the open, interoperable social networks that we believe can shape the future of the internet.”
Twitter also seems to have intermittently blocked hashtags pertaining to Threads. Meow!
What is Threads?
Closely resembling Twitter, the platform offers a similar aesthetic, though tweets are ‘threads’ and retweets are called ‘reposts and you can quote them too, just like on Musk’s platform.
There are no hashtags and you will be unable to direct message (DM) users.
Threads has restricted users to posting 500 characters but it can be easily carried over to a new thread by tapping the return button on your keyboard. Twitter however limits it’s users to 280 characters.
You need an Instagram account to sign up
Despite being a separate platform, in order to sign up to Threads you will need an account with Instagram. If you already have one, you’ll be able to pre-follow people who have not already created one. Once they do, they can request to follow you back. Your username will be the same as your Insta account.
READ: Leaving Social Media is the best decision you can make
Why do I see accounts I don’t follow?
Meta says the current platform runs on a mix of algorithmic content. Though it is more likely the platform has introduced such measures to keep Threads a more exciting and engaging place, rather than see only your best friend’s selfies.
Why can’t I send DMs?
You can’t at this point in time though it’s probably a good thing, as removing this feature will limit the number of bots and undesirable direct messages. This doesn’t mean it won’t be introduced for later versions of the app.
Can I create hashtags?
No, but that doesn’t mean this won’t happen in the future. Removing hashtags will likely reduce the amount of spam, though the caveat means we will rely heavily on an algorithm that Meta dictates to its users.
Why can’t I get Threads in the EU?
Unfortunately, it is not available in the EU right now due to regulatory issues. The EU offers strict data privacy laws, something Meta is not willing to compromise on it seems.
What other features are missing?
It seems that there is no integration with Instagram yet, and the ‘copy link’ to post action is missing. At present, Threads is a bare-bones platform. There is also no close friends setting.
What does Elon Musk think about Threads?
It’s clear Musk is not happy, considering lawyers representing Twitter have sent a cease and desist letter to Mark Zuckerberg. In it, a lawyer representing Twitter, Alex Spiro, said: “Twitter intends to strictly enforce its intellectual property rights, and demands that Meta take immediate steps to stop using any Twitter trade secrets or other highly confidential information,”. Spiro claims Meta has hired dozens of former Twitter employees, some of which still have access to trade knowledge via electronic devices provided by the company.
Meta’s communications director, Andy Stone, said the accusations don’t have a shred of truth to them. He hit back saying: “No one on the Threads engineering team is a former Twitter employee – that’s just not a thing.”
Stay tuned, more to follow…
Stanisland Magazine 
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