Meta's Threads app launched as a rival to Twitter

In July 2023, Meta launched the Threads app as a text-based competitor to Twitter, directly linked to Instagram accounts. Users can create an account by logging in with their Instagram credentials, which allows them to follow all their existing contacts on the platform. Threads offers unique features such as the ability for users to post up to 500 characters and customize their feeds by adding specific profiles and terms. It also allows a limited browsing option for those without an account, although the inability to interact or publish is a key limitation. Furthermore, Threads has branched into the fediverse, making it possible for users to share posts with other fediverse accounts and like Threads posts from these platforms. By December 2024, Meta expanded this integration, allowing users to see replies from fediverse users and follow profiles from other servers, enhancing interaction across platforms. This development raises concerns among users about data privacy and the potential implications of Threads' data collection practices, echoing prevalent sentiments expressed since the app's inception. The emergence of Threads comes at a time of scrutiny and increased competition in the social media space. With growing user bases eager for alternatives to mainstream platforms, Meta's strategic launch seems aimed at capturing a share of the market increasingly occupied by diverse social networking options. As users engage with Threads, questions surrounding content moderation policies, user privacy, and data sharing practices continue to provoke discussion in the tech and social media communities. Overall, the introduction and continuous evolution of Threads reflect Meta's ambition to keep pace with rapidly shifting social media dynamics, catering to audiences seeking innovative ways to connect and share content while navigating emerging trends associated with online privacy and communication.