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Threads promises better feed experience and new features soon

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Sushim Mukul
Sushim MukulJul 11, 2023 | 15:41

Threads promises better feed experience and new features soon

Threads became the fastest platform to get 100 million users onboard. (Photo: DailyO)

Threads, the platform developed by Meta, has rapidly amassed over 100 million users in less than five days. While receiving a warm reception, the platform has also faced criticisms.

Addressing some of these concerns, Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, revealed that they are working on introducing a chronological display of posts from 'followed accounts' in the feed.

Responding to user frustration over the current mix of recommended content and sporadic posts from 'followings', Adam Mosseri shared this upcoming feature. Mark Zuckerberg also expressed his approval of the move.

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The conversation thread mentioned above. (Visuals: Threads)

Exciting new features on the horizon

In addition to the highly anticipated chronological feed, Meta has plans to incorporate more features into Threads:

  • Originally launched as an "initial version," Threads promises additional features in the future. In response to user feedback, the company is considering implementing an editing feature for posts, translation options for various languages, and an easy account-switching function for different Threads accounts.
  • Threads currently lack a desktop interface, restricting access to the app. However, Meta and Instagram are actively working on developing a desktop interface to provide users with more flexibility. As of now, the platform can be accessed on a browser in a vertical mobile orientation.
  • Additionally, the absence of a search function within Threads is set to be addressed, with plans for a comprehensive search feature and improvements to the selection of recommended posts.
  • Deleting a Threads profile currently requires deleting the attached Instagram account, which is an inconvenience for users. Recognising this issue, Meta is working towards a solution that allows for easier termination of Threads profiles.
  • Another feature that may provoke mixed reactions when it arrives on Threads is the introduction of advertising. Currently, the platform remains ad-free, but this may change in the future.
  • Moreover, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, initially announced plans for Threads to communicate with other social media platforms, through the Fediverse system.
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Though Meta has provided some insights into the forthcoming changes in Threads, there are still areas that require attention. It's a continuous process until all improvements are implemented.

The Fediverse

Meta, in the future, envisions Threads users to able to interact with other platforms too while being on Threads. 

The Fediverse is a network of interconnected social media platforms that communicate using a common set of protocols. It enables users from different platforms to interact and share content, promoting decentralisation and user control over online experiences.

Using the fediverse, Threads aims to expand its compatibility with other apps. But the idea of integrating Threads with other platforms has raised concerns and challenges due to the "Embrace, extend and extinguish" approach employed by big tech companies where they leverage resources to expand a new technology to the point where it becomes the dominant industry standard, leaving users with limited options.

Eugen Rochko, CEO of Mastodon, dismissed these concerns, emphasising that Meta's involvement with Threads makes way for the push towards a decentralised social media. 

Last updated: July 11, 2023 | 15:48
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