Instagram is poised to release Threads, its anticipated competitor to Twitter, on the iOS App Store in the U.S. on July 6. The timing coincides with Twitter's recent difficulties, which have resulted in increased growth for competitors such as Spill, Bluesky, and Post. However, Threads could have an advantage as it will directly import users' Instagram followers and following lists, allowing them to leverage their existing communities.
Described as a place where "communities come together to discuss everything," Threads aims to facilitate discussions on current topics and emerging trends. The app will allow users to follow and interact with their favorite creators or build their own following. Although it is closely linked with Instagram, Threads will function as a stand-alone app. Features will include the ability to like, comment, repost, and share posts, and control who can reply to posts.
There has been speculation about Threads being a "decentralized" platform, given its purported compatibility with Mastodon, a network hosted on the decentralized ActivityPub. However, this claim seems contradictory given Instagram's highly centralized nature. While Meta has experienced mixed success with its side apps in the past, the launch of Threads could potentially leverage Twitter's ongoing issues to its advantage. However, it will be up to users to decide whether they wish to incorporate another Meta product into their social media repertoire.
