Threads on Instagram is a standalone, text-based social media app developed by Meta (Instagram's parent company) designed for real-time conversations and community engagement. It allows users to share short posts called "threads" that can include text (up to 500 characters), photos, videos (up to 5 minutes), links, and other media. Users can post, reply to others, follow profiles, and participate in public discussions, making it similar to a microblogging platform like Twitter but integrated closely with Instagram
. Key features of Threads include:
- Seamless login and integration with Instagram accounts, carrying over usernames and followers automatically
- A feed composed of posts from followed accounts, suggested content, and curated custom feeds based on interests
- Ability to share Threads posts directly to Instagram Stories or DMs
- Interactive tools such as polls, GIFs, and reposting to boost engagement
- Search and discovery functions to find conversations by keywords, tags, or trending topics, with some features like trending topics currently limited to certain countries
- Community guidelines aligned with Instagram’s policies to maintain a positive environment
Threads was launched in July 2023 and quickly became one of the fastest- growing apps, aiming to be a "positive and creative space to express ideas" and foster public dialogue
. It is available globally on iOS, Android, and via a web version
. In summary, Threads on Instagram is a text-first social platform designed to complement Instagram by focusing on short, real-time conversations and community interaction, leveraging Instagram’s existing user base for a smooth and integrated experience
