What is Instagram Threads?
Instagram Threads is a messaging app created by Instagram (owned by Meta) that focuses on private, intimate conversations with your Close Friends list. Originally launched in 2019 as a companion app for Instagram Direct, Threads has evolved into a **Twitter-like microblogging platform** in 2023, competing with platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
Threads: Two Different Versions
Interestingly, there are **two versions** of Threads:
1. **The Original Threads (2019-2021)** – A messaging app for close friends.
2. **The New Threads (2023-Present)** – A text-based social media platform linked to Instagram.
Since the original Threads was discontinued, this blog will focus on the new Threads app —Meta’s answer to Twitter.
Features of Instagram Threads (2023 Edition)
The new Threads app is designed for real-time public conversations focusing on text-based posts. Here’s what it offers:
1. Seamless Instagram Integration
- Your Threads username is the same as your Instagram handle.
- You can easily follow the same accounts you do on Instagram.
- Verification from Instagram carries over to Threads.
2. Text-Based Posts with Media Support
- Posts (called "threads") can be up to 500 characters long.
- Supports **images, videos, and links.
- Replies and quote-posts allow for engaging discussions.
3. A Timeline of Conversations
- The home feed shows posts from people you follow and recommended content.
- No algorithmic "For You" feed (as of now)—posts appear in chronological order.
4. Cross-Platform Sharing
- Share Threads posts directly to Instagram Stories or other platforms.
- Users can interact without needing a separate account (via Instagram).
5. Privacy Controls
- Choose between a public or private profile.
- Control who can mention or reply to you.
- Block, restrict, or report users (similar to Instagram).
How is Threads Different from Twitter (X)?
Threads is often compared to Twitter (now X), but there are key differences:
| Feature | Threads (Instagram) | Twitter (X) |
|----------------|------------------|------------|
| **Character Limit** | 500 | 280 (free), 25K (Premium) |
| **Algorithm** | Chronological (for now) | Algorithm-driven |
| **Video Length** | 5 mins | 2hrs 20mins (Premium) |
| **Hashtags** | Not supported | Supported |
| **Direct Messages** | No (uses Instagram DMs) | Yes |
| **Trending Topics** | No | Yes |
| **Decentralization** | Planned (via ActivityPub) | No |
Pros and Cons of Instagram
✅ Pros
✔️ Clean, simple interface – Easy to use for Instagram users.
✔️ No ads (for now) – Unlike Twitter, Threads is ad-free.
✔️ Strong privacy controls – Built with user safety in mind.
✔️ Potential for growth – Already has millions of users due to Instagram’s reach.
❌ Cons
❌ No desktop version yet – Mobile-only (for now).
❌ Limited features – No hashtags, trending topics, or DMs.
❌ Tied to Instagram – Deleting Threads requires deleting Instagram.
How to Join Threads
1. Download the Threads app (iOS/Android).
2. Log in with your Instagram account.
3. Customize your profile and follow accounts.
4. Start posting!