Threads: How to use the ‘fastest’ growing social media app by Meta Platforms

How to use Threads: Meta Platforms, the parent company of popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has introduced Threads as its answer to the widely acclaimed microblogging app Twitter. In this article, we will explore how Threads works, its key features, and how you can maximize its potential to connect with your audience. Let’s dive in and look at HOW TO USE THREADS!

Getting Started with Threads

To access Threads, you need to have an existing Instagram account. Utilizing your Instagram login credentials, you can seamlessly log into the Threads platform. While some may view this as a tactic to consolidate Meta’s influence over the social media landscape, the allure of the app will undoubtedly entice users to embrace this new experience alongside their friends both online and offline.

To begin using Threads, you will be prompted to transfer your current Instagram profile, with the option to customize it to some extent. Additionally, you have the opportunity to continue following the same accounts you already follow on Instagram.

It’s important to note that when joining Threads, users below the age of 16 (or 18 in certain countries) will automatically have a private profile.

Unleashing the Power of Threads

Threads closely resemble Twitter in terms of functionality, allowing users to post short updates of up to 500 characters. You can enhance your posts with links, photos, and videos lasting up to 5 minutes. Furthermore, Threads is seamlessly integrated with your Instagram account, enabling you to effortlessly share your Threads posts on your Instagram story or as links on other platforms.

Exploring Threads Features

While Threads is still evolving, it already shares some similarities with Twitter while introducing its own unique aspects. Let’s take a closer look at the current features and distinctions:

1. Unified Home Page: Threads combine posts from both accounts you follow and threads from suggested profiles into a single stream on the main page, unlike Twitter’s divided segments.
2. Limited Search Function: Presently, Threads only allows you to search for other profiles, unlike Twitter’s comprehensive search feature that includes keywords, profiles, and trends. It is expected that Threads will introduce keyword search capabilities in the future.
3. Mobile-Only Experience: At present, Threads does not offer a desktop version. When visiting the official Threads website, you will find a QR code that redirects you to the app’s download page on either the App Store or Google Play Store.
4. Profile Name and Handle: Currently, Threads links your display name to your Instagram profile and displays only your chosen handle on your posts, similar to Instagram’s functionality.
5. Content Filtering: Similar to Twitter, Threads allows you to block specific keywords, ensuring a tailored feed experience free from undesired content.
6. Controlled Post Replies: Threads offers options for controlling who can respond to your posts, giving you the flexibility to allow replies from the people you follow, those mentioned in the thread, or opening it up for interaction with all users.
7. No Spaces-Like Feature: While Twitter’s Spaces feature has gained significant popularity, Threads does not currently provide a voice-centric chatroom feature.
8. Additional Features: Some staple Twitter features, such as polls, are yet to be implemented in Threads.

How to use Threads

To make the most of Threads, follow these steps:

1. Existing Instagram Account: Ensure you have an active Instagram account as a prerequisite for joining Threads. The app will utilize your Instagram login details for seamless integration.
2. Profile Porting: Once you create your Threads account, your Instagram username will be automatically transferred. You can then personalize your profile, noting that users under 18 in the UK will have a default private profile.
3. Maintaining Connections: With Threads, you can easily continue following the same accounts you already follow on Instagram, eliminating the need to rebuild your network from scratch. Simply import your existing following with a few clicks.
4. Controlling Visibility: When crafting a post or “Thread” on Threads, you have the ability to choose its visibility. Whether you want it to reach a global audience or limit it to your followers, the choice is yours.
5. Key Features: Familiarize yourself with essential features like unfollowing, reporting, blocking, and restricting profiles. These options can be accessed through the three-dot drop-down menu. If you block a user on Instagram, they will automatically be blocked on Threads as well. Additionally, Threads incorporates accessibility features such as screen reader support and AI-generated image descriptions.
6. Future Integrations: Meta Platforms aims to enhance Threads’ compatibility with other applications supporting the ActivityPub protocol, such as WordPress and Mastodon. The company envisions a future where Threads posts can be accessed by any compatible app, regardless of whether the user has a Threads account.

See Some videos by some users on How to use Threads:

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In conclusion, Threads presents a new opportunity for individuals and businesses to engage with their audience through a platform that combines elements of Twitter and Instagram. By harnessing the power of Threads, you can leverage Meta Platforms’ growing ecosystem to connect, share, and interact with your community. Stay tuned for exciting updates and features as Threads continues to evolve.