Threads is a social media platform powered by Instagram. After Elon Musk became the owner of X (formerly known as Twitter), Meta, the company responsible for Instagram, decided to create Threads, an app similar in functionality to its competitor.
Just like on X, Threads users can post text, images, and videos, and interact with other users by liking or commenting on other people's posts. This app focuses primarily on written interactions and conversations, just like X does.
Threads with and without a profile
You can access the Threads app and its content in two different ways. You can either choose to create a profile or you can opt to browse the posts without logging in:
- With a profile: Threads is an app powered by Instagram, so, to access Threads, you need to log in using your Instagram username and password. When you create your Threads account using your Instagram credentials, you grant the app access to the personal information you have provided to Instagram, such as your login information, your profile picture, and your followers. Your Instagram information will be used by threads to personalize your experience and the ads shown to you based on your personal interests. Once you have logged in, you can post, like, and comment as you please.
- Without a profile: Threads can also be accessed without a profile. By doing so, you keep your Instagram account and all its information separate from Threads. By using the app without logging in, you will be able to browse public content and search for profiles. However, bear in mind that you will not be able to create posts, interact by liking and commenting on posts, or follow people's profiles.
Downloading the Threads app
The Thread app is available both for Android and iPhone devices. To download the app, simply look it up in the App Store or Google Play Store, respectively. Once you have found it, tap the Install button. When the download is ready, open the app and choose whether you want to log in with your Instagram account or proceed without signing in.
Public and private profiles on Threads
Just like on Instagram, you can change the settings on your account to make it public or private. These are some key characteristics of the two profile types available on Threads:
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Public profile |
Private profile |
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Anyone on Threads can follow you without your approval. |
Only people you approve can follow you on Threads. |
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Anyone on or off Threads, including on other Meta products like Facebook, can see your posts. |
Only people who follow you can see your posts. |
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Anyone on or off Threads, including on other Meta products like Facebook, can see your profile information, including your profile photo, name, username, and bio. |
Anyone on or off Threads, including on other Meta products like Facebook, can see your profile information, including your profile photo, name, username, and bio. |
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Anyone on Threads can repost your content. |
Only your followers can repost your content. |
Threads vs. X
Although both platforms have the same aim, which is sharing short messages and interacting with other users through text, there are some differences between the two apps. Some of the differences are:
- X includes an in-app messaging platform. Threads, on the other hand, does not.
- Threads is powered by Instagram, while X is a standalone app.
- Threads has a character limit of 500; X's limit is of 280.
- Threads users can post videos of up to 5 minutes, while X allows only 2 minutes and 20 seconds.
- Threads can be downloaded for free and does not offer a paid subscription. X, however, has a premium subscription service called X Premium.
Pros:
- Allows more characters per post.
- You log in with the same credentials as Instagram.
- You can browse content without an account.
Cons:
- Requires a profile to post and interact with other users.
- Imports your personal information automatically.
- Requires an Instagram account to log in.
