How Instagram is Copying Twitter's 'Threads' Feature and Why It Matters

In a move to enhance user engagement and foster more intimate conversations, Instagram is launching a new feature called "Threads." This feature enables users to create threaded conversations within the app, similar to Twitter's 'Threads' feature introduced in 2017. Threads allow users to link multiple messages together, enabling them to tell longer stories or provide additional context. In this article, we will explore the details of Instagram's Threads feature, its significance, and its impact on the social media landscape.

Highlights:

• Instagram is launching a new feature called ‘Threads’ that will let users create and share threaded conversations with their close friends.
• Threads is similar to Twitter’s ‘Threads’ feature, which allows users to link multiple tweets together to tell a longer story or provide more context.
• Users can add photos, videos, text, stickers, and polls to their threads, and see the replies from their friends in a single chat.
• Users can also update their status with their close friends, and choose from a list of preset statuses or create their own custom status.
• Threads is designed for users who want to have more intimate and authentic conversations with their close friends, without worrying about the public or broader audience of the app.

The Features of Instagram Threads

Instagram's Threads feature aims to provide users with a platform to express themselves more fully with their close friends. By tapping on a new camera icon in the Direct Messages section of the app, users can initiate a thread and choose whom they want to share it with. Once a thread is created, users can add various forms of media such as photos, videos, text, stickers, and polls. The replies from friends are consolidated into a single chat, allowing for seamless and interactive conversations.

In addition to threaded conversations, Threads introduces a status feature that allows users to share their current activities or feelings with their close friends. Users can select from a range of preset statuses like "Studying," "On the move," or "Low battery." Alternatively, they can create their own custom status. The status will be displayed next to the user's name in the Direct Messages section and will automatically update based on factors such as location, motion, and battery level throughout the day.

Privacy and User Control

Instagram acknowledges the need for privacy and user control with the introduction of Threads. The feature is designed for users who desire more intimate and authentic conversations with their close friends, free from concerns about public or broader audiences. Users have full control over whom they add to their close friends list, ensuring that only those individuals can view their threads and status updates. Furthermore, users can opt out of the status feature entirely if they prefer not to share their activity with anyone.

Instagram emphasizes that Threads is an optional feature, providing users with the choice to embrace it or not. To safeguard privacy and data, the app incorporates built-in controls and settings. Users can edit or delete their threads and status updates at any time. Additionally, they can block or mute individuals they do not wish to communicate with. The auto-status feature can be disabled if users prefer not to grant Instagram access to their location, motion, or battery level information.

Competition and Instagram's Response

The launch of Threads comes at a time when Instagram faces escalating competition from other social media platforms, including TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube. These platforms have attracted larger user bases and increased engagement through their video-centric and creative features. To keep pace with evolving trends, Instagram has been introducing new functionalities such as Reels and Live Rooms. Reels allows users to create short-form videos akin to TikTok, while Live Rooms enables live streaming with up to three other participants.

Nevertheless, critics have accused Instagram of imitating features from other apps rather than spearheading innovative developments. Threads, for instance, is perceived as a direct response to Twitter's 'Threads' feature, widely utilized by journalists, activists, celebrities, and users in general to share longer stories or express opinions. Twitter's 'Threads' feature also includes a status option, allowing users to indicate their online or offline presence.

Addressing Concerns

Concerns have been raised regarding the privacy and security implications of Threads, particularly the status feature. Some users worry that sharing information about their location, movement, and battery level might compromise their privacy. Additionally, questions have been raised about the necessity of another messaging app, considering Instagram already has Direct Messages and WhatsApp.

To address these concerns, Instagram asserts that Threads is an optional feature, empowering users to choose its usage. The app includes comprehensive controls and settings to protect user privacy and data. Users have the flexibility to manage their threads and status updates, and they can delete or edit them at any time. Blocking or muting individuals is also possible for enhanced control over communication. Furthermore, users have the option to disable the auto-status feature, preventing Instagram from accessing location, motion, and battery level information.

Availability and User Guide

Instagram has announced that Threads will be available globally on July 6 for both iOS and Android devices. The feature will be integrated into the main Instagram app, but users can also download a separate Threads app if they prefer. Instagram anticipates that Threads will foster more meaningful connections and personal interactions among users and their close friends.

How to Use Threads on Instagram

To utilize the Threads feature on Instagram, follow these simple steps:

1. Ensure that you have the latest version of the Instagram app installed on your device. Alternatively, you can download the separate Threads app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Open the Instagram app and tap on the Direct Messages icon located at the top right corner of the screen. A new camera icon will be visible beside the search bar.
3. Tap on the camera icon to initiate a thread.
4. Choose the recipients with whom you want to share the thread. Select up to 12 individuals from your close friends list or create a new group chat.
5. Enhance your thread by adding photos, videos, text, stickers, and polls. Capture new media using the camera or choose from your gallery. Apply filters, effects, and editing tools to enhance your content. Incorporate text with different fonts, colors, and backgrounds. Include stickers from various categories, such as emojis, GIFs, and music. Add polls by tapping on the poll icon and asking your friends a question with two options.
6. Tap the send button to share your thread with your friends. Their replies will be consolidated into a single chat where you can continue the conversation and share more messages or media. The eye icon at the bottom of the screen allows you to see who has viewed your thread.
7. To update your status, tap on the profile picture icon located at the top left corner of the screen. Choose a preset status or create a custom one by tapping on the plus icon. Activate the auto-status feature to have your status automatically updated based on your location, motion, and battery level. Your status will be visible next to your name in the Direct Messages section, viewable exclusively by your close friends.
8. To manage your settings and preferences, tap on the menu icon situated at the top right corner of the screen. Explore options such as editing close friends, notifications, themes, data saver, and privacy. Access your account settings, help center, and report a problem from this menu.

Conclusion

Instagram's introduction of the Threads feature represents an effort to facilitate deeper and more personalized conversations among users and their close friends. By allowing threaded conversations and incorporating a status feature, Instagram seeks to provide an engaging and private environment for its users. With comprehensive privacy controls and settings, users can tailor their Threads experience to align with their preferences and comfort levels.

As Instagram continues to face competition from rival platforms, Threads positions itself as a response to the demand for longer-form storytelling and expression. By offering features reminiscent of Twitter's 'Threads' feature, Instagram aims to retain its user base and offer a comprehensive experience within its platform.

Threads is scheduled to launch on July 6 and will be accessible to users worldwide on iOS and Android devices. Whether users choose to integrate Threads into their Instagram experience or not, the feature presents a compelling opportunity to engage with close friends in a more intimate and authentic manner. Embrace the versatility of Threads on Instagram and enjoy more vibrant conversations and connections within your social circle.