Meta, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, operates Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and now Threads. Prior to its launch, there were comparisons made between Threads and Twitter. Since its launch in early July, Threads has surpassed 100 million sign-ups on its platform. This is likely due to the ease of setting up a new account through its sister platform Instagram. Anyone with an Instagram account can sign up for Threads without having to complete a new registration as the accounts are linked.
Threads functions are very similar to Twitter with some minor differences. To begin, users can post up to 500 characters and 10 photos in a single post on Threads. The new microblogging platform also supports features such as videos and links. However, there have been some drawbacks, including the absence of hashtags or search functions for keywords/phrases. Currently, Threads’ home page displays posts from people you follow or recommended posts suggested by the algorithm. It is important to note that if a user no longer wishes to use Threads, they should not delete it as it is linked to their Instagram account. Deleting Threads would also mean deleting your Instagram account. However, you can deactivate your Threads account. It also allows users to hide their profiles and posts from the public.
The Monetization of Social Media
What does this mean for content creators, influencers, and even regular users? Trying to figure out a new social media platform can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. You need to stay on top of trends and content on various platforms to stay relevant. For content creators and influencers, this could mean potentially losing revenue as you start spending more time exploring something new.
Currently, Threads does not run ads or provide any avenues for creators to monetize their content. As compared to Instagram, creators can earn through various monetization tools including tools such as brand partnerships, live badges for viewers to support creators and subscriptions that allow creators to create exclusive and engaging content for their subscribers.
Likewise, Twitter operates in a similar manner. Users can monetize their content through sponsored tweets. They also have features like a monthly subscription called “Super Follows” and the ability for users to tip their favourite creators using the “Tips” feature. As of now, Threads does not have any monetization plans, but considering it has been less than a month since its launch, it is highly likely that we will soon see the introduction of more features and options similar to those found on Instagram and Facebook.
Is Threads Poised to Become the New Twitter?
Many of the existing and past Twitter users have been searching for an alternative platform to express their thoughts. Their dissatisfaction with the launch of Twitter Blue, a subscription service offering exclusive features not available to the general public, as well as the controversial blue checkmark has left many users looking for options. Furthermore, the recent announcement of limiting users to 600 tweets per day has also caused quite a stir.
Twitter has witnessed rival platforms attempting to become the next big microblogging sensation in the past, including Mastodon, Bluesky, T2, and Truth Social. However, none of them succeeded in overthrowing Twitter’s dominance. Threads may have a chance at success, considering the influx of users, including former Twitter users and even celebrities! Celebrities such as Whoopi Goldberg and Sara Bareilles, who previously left Twitter, have been spotted on Threads.
Will Threads emerge as the mainstream microblogging platform, or is it merely a passing trend that everyone is currently hyped up about?