Meta is entering the microblogging arena with the launch of its new app, Threads. The text-based social networking app, available on iOS and Android in 100 countries, allows Instagram users to post short updates, including text, links, photos, and videos. However, it is notably absent from the EU due to concerns over data privacy regulations.
Threads was first revealed in leaks earlier this year and was previewed to Meta employees in June. The app is aimed at high-profile celebrities, influencers, and artists, and it plans to support ActivityPub, the social networking protocol used by Mastodon and other federated apps, to broaden its reach.
While Threads faces competition from existing Mastodon clients like Ivory and Mammoth, Meta’s entry into the decentralized social web has raised concerns about its dominance in the market, similar to Google’s dominance in web-based email.
Meta has a history of shutting down stand-alone apps, but Threads integrates seamlessly with Instagram, allowing users to authenticate using their existing credentials. The app carries over account details, followers, and block lists from Instagram, making it easier for users to transition. It also operates under the same Community Guidelines as Instagram, ensuring consistency in content moderation.
The launch of Threads follows Instagram’s experimentation with text-based updates through features like Notes and the previous app called Threads, which resembled Snapchat. This new app, however, focuses on providing a dedicated space for users to share their thoughts.
Privacy concerns have been raised regarding Threads, as it collects various user data, including health, financial, and browsing history. While this data collection is not unique to Threads, users now have more options to choose platforms with better privacy practices. Nevertheless, Threads benefits from its integration with users’ existing Instagram networks.
The app’s launch in the EU has been delayed due to legal uncertainty surrounding data use under the Digital Markets Act. Meta was previously fined around $1.3 billion for exporting EU user data to the US for processing.
Threads represents Meta’s latest endeavor to capture users’ attention and compete with existing microblogging platforms like Twitter. Its success remains to be seen, but Meta’s track record with stand-alone apps raises questions about the app’s longevity.
