On July 6 – 7, 2023 (date depending on which country you live in), the social media world got shaken up by the introduction of Threads, Mark Zuckerberg’s version of Twitter.
So what’s all the racket about? Why do we need another Twitter? What’s the difference between the platforms? We’ve got answers to these questions below.
In less than a week of its release, Threads has attracted over 1 million users, but that’s not all. Instagram has over 2 billion users who can directly link their Instagram account to Threads, which means this new social media platform will grow fast. Very fast.
So, what’s the difference between Threads and Twitter?
Threads was released at a very vulnerable time for Twitter with Elon Musk’s recent announcement that free Twitter accounts would, temporarily, only be able to view 600 tweets per day (amongst the other questionable decisions Musk has made since taking over the social media giant).
With Musk giving Twitter users and the general public the ick, Zuckerberg’s release of Threads was a breath of fresh air.
The key difference between Twitter and Threads is that your Threads account is linked to your Instagram account which means you can choose to carry over your Instagram followers to Threads. This is a VERY juicy incentive to join the new social media platform.
Some other key things to note about Threads:
- Although it’s a standalone app, it’s designed to work seamlessly with Instagram.
- Its objective is to keep you connected with your friends via thread posts (these can include images and videos).
- Everyone who is under 16 (or under 18 in certain countries) will automatically be defaulted to a private profile when they join Threads.
- Screen reader support and AI-generated image descriptions are also enabled on Threads.
- There’s a “Do Not Disturb” mode that lets you silence notifications for a set period of time.
- There’s also a feature called “Auto Status” that uses your phone’s location to automatically update your status.
- Like on Instagram, you can add hidden words to filter out replies to your threads that contain specific words.
- You can also unfollow, block, restrict, or report a profile. A handy thing to know, any accounts you’ve blocked on Instagram will automatically be blocked on Threads.
Ultimately, Threads is what Twitter is not. It’s focused on connection, positivity, and inclusivity. Basically, Threads is Cinderella and Twitter is looking like the ugly step-sister.
If this has persuaded you to join Threads, here’s what you need to know before posting
You have a 500-character limit.
Your posts can include links, photos, and videos of up to 5 minutes in length.
You can share a Threads post to your Instagram story, or share your post as a link on other platforms.
You can also control who can mention you or reply to you within Threads.
Want to shine on Threads?
If you’re ready to dip your toes into the new social media platform taking over the world, our team of social media experts can help you create content specifically for Threads.
