}

Meta launches Threads, a rival to Twitter

Threads, a new social media platform created by Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, launched on Wednesday, July 5th. Threads is a similar format as Twitter, except it does not include hashtags, explore, or trending features that Twitter has. Threads does not allow users to message each other directly, but the app promises updates will come. Threads accounts sync to users' Instagram accounts, allowing users to keep their usernames and followers.

The app allows users to have real-time, public conversations with other users. The app allows users to post text, images, and videos. Users can also like, share, or repost content. Posts made can be up to 500 characters and include links, photos, or videos up to five minutes long.

The unveiling of Threads comes as Elon Musk has changed the experience of Twitter. Some of the changes include altering the algorithm and other features of the app, like limiting the number of tweets people can read while using the app. Many believe that Threads will be able to replace Twitter due to Meta having large amounts of capital and access to Instagram’s user base.

Upon launching, the app has seen over 30 million users sign up. Users seem to be divided on how they feel about Threads. Some users on Twitter praised Threads because they could make longer posts. They also praised the app because there was less arguing between other users and hate speech. However, other users claim they had a negative experience with the Threads app. Several users posted memes about users running back to Twitter after using Threads.

While there is a mixed reaction to the app, many users, celebrities, and businesses continue to sign up. The app promises to continue to update and add new features. It is still up in there whether Threads will replace Twitter based on user reactions. While the app got sign-ups quickly, the hard part will be keeping users engaged and on the app.