In life, change is the only constant. That’s especially evident in the social media space. It feels like, with each passing month, there comes a new “game-changing” social media platform destined to soak up more of our collective downtime. The latest and hottest social media topic is Instagram Threads. The oft-described “Twitter killer” has grown exponentially, as has the positive feedback. Don’t get left behind. Instead, read more online and learn everything you need to know about Instagram Threads.
Shutterstock: Diego ThomaziniWhat is Instagram Threads?
Instagram Threads is a standalone, text-based conversation app developed by Instagram for users to share pictures, messages, and videos with their followers and those they follow.1
Launched in 2023, Threads was designed as an intimate space to communicate and share updates with your most cherished circle on Instagram. The app connects directly with Instagram, allowing users to maintain their favorite contacts separate from their broader follower list.
Setting Up Instagram Threads
Getting started with Instagram Threads is a breeze. Download the app from your device’s application store and log in using your Instagram credentials.2 It really is as simple as that! Once set up, Threads will reveal a text-based interface featuring trending topics, the latest posts, and highlights from your friends list.
Using Instagram Threads
The shiny new communications app from parent company META is actually really easy to use. Those familiar with Instagram will recognize the minimalist interface immediately.
Once signed up and logged on, you can write, share, and repost pictures, video, and text-based posts immediately. Or, if you’re the scrolling type, you can find and follow your top friends and favorite influencers with ease.
The Pros and Cons of Instagram Threads
Instagram Threads offer a number of benefits, particularly the ability to cultivate a more intimate social media space.3 With Threads, you can post real-time, text-based updates along with photos, videos, and audio clips.
A few of the early pros include:
- The seamless integration between Instagram and Threads.
- The easy initial set-up (especially for existing Instagram users).
- It’s new “media carousel” feature.
It’s not all pictures and comments of sunshines and rainbows though. Some of the earliest and most frustrating drawbacks include:
- A seemingly clueless algorithm that delivers very little content from close friends.
- An inability to delete the Threads app without also deleting Instagram.
- An inability to easily toggle between multiple accounts.
The need to manage another social media app is yet another reason a lot of people remain hesitant. Still, Threads remains one of the most talked about social media platforms in the world right now and we don’t see that slowing down anytime soon.
Instagram Threads Competitors
Social media is a competitive space, made that much more crowded by the recent launch of Instagram Threads. The platform’s major competitors include:
- Snapchat: Snapchat is a unique platform that focuses on instant, ephemeral photo and video sharing. It introduced the concept of ‘Stories’ which disappear after 24 hours. Snapchat also includes features like Bitmoji, AR filters, and instant messaging, attracting a younger demographic. Its emphasis on casual and spontaneous content sharing poses competition to Instagram Threads.
- Signal: Known for its focus on privacy and security, Signal offers end-to-end encrypted messaging, voice and video calls. It doesn’t store user data and has open-source software, appealing to users who prioritize privacy and data security.
- WeChat: Predominantly used in China, WeChat is a multi-purpose platform combining messaging, social media, and even payment services. WeChat’s integration of multiple services in a single app makes it a powerful player in the instant messaging and social networking arena.
- TikTok: While TikTok is primarily known for its short-form video content, it also offers direct messaging features. This combination of entertainment and communication could potentially draw users away from Instagram Threads.
- Twitter: Twitter is likely the closest competitor to the latest from Instagram. Its long-established user base and reputation across various professional networks could impact the growth of Threads in the long term.
Stay Connected
Instagram Threads has managed to stand out in a crowded space that includes some big competitors and META’s pre-existing platforms. There’s no telling how long the hype will last. Still, it’s hard to ignore the text-based platform’s early success.
Instagram Threads has a lot of people excited about the future of social media. It certainly has us paying attention. Either way, we’ll be following along the Instagram Threads saga, so be sure to check back and dive in on all things Threads.