THREADS by Instagram - FULL OVERVIEW & HOW TO USE

THREADS by Instagram - FULL OVERVIEW & HOW TO USE

Instagram recently launched a new app called THREADS, and in this article, we will provide a complete overview of its features and guide you on how to use it effectively. THREADS is a text-based conversation app that is integrated with Instagram, making it incredibly easy to create an account. To get started, simply log in using your existing Instagram account. If you have the Instagram app installed on your phone, THREADS will automatically detect your account, and all you need to do is tap the button to log in. Unfortunately, you cannot log in with Snapchat, Apple, or Google accounts – only Instagram. If you don't have an Instagram account, you will need to create one.

In terms of design, THREADS resembles Instagram but focuses solely on text-based conversations. It retains the same icons and interface, giving it a familiar feel to Instagram users. To follow someone, tap on the plus icon and select the profiles you want to follow. To manage your connections, tap on the three dots for options such as unfollowing, muting, hiding, or reporting. It's important to note that following someone on THREADS does not automatically mean you are following them on Instagram, as the two platforms are not fully synchronized.

When using THREADS, you can scroll through your feed, which consists of text-based posts, images, and documents shared by the people you follow. You can interact with the posts by liking, commenting, reposting, or retweeting. Furthermore, you have the option to add the content to your Instagram feed or story, as well as copy the link or share it with others. However, THREADS does not support direct messaging.

In addition to regular posts, THREADS also allows you to add links to your bio. This feature can enhance your profile and provide additional information to your followers. As for the user base, THREADS, as an app owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), has the advantage of an instant large user base. This sets it apart from other decentralized social media platforms like BlueSky and Mastodon, where user adoption takes time to grow.

THREADS appears to be building upon the concept of a decentralized social media platform known as Fediverse. This concept involves using decentralized protocols where servers or nodes are independent and not controlled by a central authority. This allows users to easily switch between servers or platforms while retaining their followers and content. While THREADS currently exists as a separate app, it may integrate with the larger vision of Fediverse in the future.

In THREADS, you also have the ability to search for and follow people from Instagram, along with suggested profiles for your consideration. The app also provides additional settings for privacy, such as hiding likes, blocking profiles, and opting for a private profile. You can receive reminders to take a break from the app if you spend too much time on it and have the option to deactivate your THREADS profile without affecting your Instagram account.

To customize your account, you can edit your profile, change your bio link, and manage your followers. However, changing your name and username can only be done through the account center on Instagram, which is a slight inconvenience. The ability to post threads is one of the key features of THREADS. You can upload up to 10 photos and videos and decide whether anyone can reply or only mentioned users, a feature reminiscent of Twitter.

THREADS shows promise with its initial engagement and user base, thanks to its connection with Instagram's extensive community. However, it remains to be seen whether it can compete with Twitter and other decentralized social media platforms in the long run. Regardless, THREADS offers a convenient way for Instagram users to engage in text-based conversations and explore an alternative microblogging experience.

For Android users, THREADS is available for download on the Google Play Store. If you're curious about this new Instagram app, give it a try and see if it suits your needs.