In a competitive move, Meta’s Threads app is gaining traction with an impressive 12 million downloads in December 2023, securing the No. 4 spot on Apple's App Store and No. 8 on Google Play. While this surge aligns with its European launch, indicating significant interest, Threads is not without challenges.
Before its European debut on December 14th, Threads experienced a slowdown in downloads. Despite the recent boost, the app still faces hurdles, with notable Twitter users sticking to X and prominent profiles lacking a Threads presence.
While Threads competes for attention, X grapples with its own set of challenges. Elon Musk's app is struggling to win back ad partners, evident in a reported 55% reduction in Super Bowl ad spending. Brands are diverting budgets to platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, suggesting a potential decline in X's ad revenue.
As X deals with controversies and advertiser skepticism, Threads emerges as a potential alternative for users exploring a different social media experience. While X's total collapse seems unlikely, the rising popularity of Threads indicates a dynamic shift in the social media landscape, with users increasingly willing to explore alternatives in the face of ongoing challenges.