Threads, Meta’s rival to Twitter and X, is experiencing steady growth, with over 150 million monthly active users as of the Q1 2024 earnings call. This represents an increase from the 130 million users reported in February. The social network has been making efforts to integrate with ActivityPub, a decentralized protocol that powers networks like Mastodon. In March, Threads allowed U.S.-based users over 18 to connect their accounts to the Fediverse, enabling their posts to be visible on other servers.
Meta has plans to release Threads’ API to a wide range of developers by June, which will enable them to build experiences around the social network. However, it remains uncertain whether Threads will allow developers to create full-fledged third-party clients. This move could potentially open up new opportunities for developers to innovate and create unique features for Threads.
One notable development from Meta is the recent launch of its AI chatbot across Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram. However, Threads was excluded from this list, possibly due to its lack of native direct messaging functionality. This omission suggests that Meta may still be working on enhancing Threads’ messaging capabilities to bring it in line with its other platforms.
In terms of features, Threads introduced a test feature that allows users to auto-archive their posts after a defined period of time. Additionally, users can choose to archive or unarchive individual posts and make them public. These features provide users with more control over their content and privacy settings, enhancing their overall experience on the platform.
While Threads is only about nine months old, Meta has been steadily growing its user base. However, it’s important to note that Threads is not positioned as a direct alternative to X. Instagram Head Adam Mosseri clarified in October that Threads won’t “amplify news on the platform.” Despite this distinction, Threads continues to gain traction in the social media landscape.
Recent reports from Business Insider indicate that Threads now has more daily active users in the U.S. than X, according to app analytics firm Apptopia. This suggests that Threads is resonating with users and establishing itself as a viable option for those seeking a different social media experience.
In conclusion, Threads is making strides in its growth and development. With its expanding user base, integration with ActivityPub, upcoming API release, and introduction of new features, Threads is positioning itself as a unique player in the social media realm. While it may not be an X alternative, Threads offers a distinct user experience and continues to gain momentum in the market.
