Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has launched Threads, a new text-based conversation app, intensifying his rivalry with Twitter CEO Elon Musk. The app, which became available on July 6, 2023, bears a striking resemblance to Twitter in both appearance and functionality. This article delves into what Threads is and its potential impact on the future of Twitter.
What is Threads?
Developed by Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, Threads is designed as a platform for real-time, public conversations. Linked to Instagram, it allows users to connect with their favorite creators and like-minded individuals. Its microblogging format mirrors Twitter, enabling users to share short messages and engage with others' posts. A key feature is the ability to retain existing Instagram followers, facilitating rapid audience growth on the new platform.
Will Threads Replace Twitter?
Threads is considered a significant challenger to Twitter, especially given the latter's recent challenges, including outages and usage restrictions for non-paying users. Some speculate that Threads could become a "Twitter killer," potentially prompting a mass migration of users.
Threads vs. Twitter: A Comparison
Threads offers features like disappearing messages, read receipts, and integration with Instagram Stories. Unlike Twitter's recent implementation of a 600-tweet viewing limit for non-subscribers of Twitter Blue, Threads, according to its app store listings, appears to be free to download and use without post viewing limitations.
Why Did Meta Develop Threads?
The long-standing rivalry between Meta and Twitter, marked by a constant battle for users and features, has culminated in the creation of Threads. The competition between Zuckerberg and Musk has even extended to a proposed physical fight, although it has yet to materialize.
Potential Downsides of Threads
Being a new platform, the full extent of Threads' downsides remains to be seen. However, concerns have been raised regarding user privacy and data security, particularly given Meta's history of privacy-related issues and scandals.
Data Collection and Usage by Threads
Threads' iOS privacy disclosures indicate it may collect sensitive user data, including health and financial information, location details, browsing history, contacts, and search history, to create user profiles.
Protecting Your Privacy on Threads
Users can control the data shared with Threads during the initial setup process. It's possible to create an account without sharing any data categories. However, certain data, such as device identifiers and usage data, might still be collected by default or by other Meta products. Data sharing also occurs between Threads and other Meta platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Messenger, and WhatsApp.
Managing Data Sharing on Threads
Users should carefully review the prompts and permissions during setup and adjust their smartphone settings to control data sharing. However, restricting certain data may impact app functionality.
Key Takeaways
Threads' arrival intensifies competition in the social media arena. It remains to be seen how Twitter will respond to this challenge and what innovations it will introduce to retain its user base. The focus now shifts to Threads and whether it can truly provide a more engaging and authentic social media experience.
