​Everything You Need to Know about Threads: An Instagram App

by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert

Threads is a new app from Meta, which is touted as the 'Twitter Killer'. The app looks a lot like Twitter, with a feed of largely text-based posts, but like Twitter, you can also post photos and videos as long as five minutes. Content posted to Threads has a 500-character limit and like Twitter, users can reply to, repost, and quote others’ Threads posts. Also, the app offers the ability to share posts from Threads directly to Instagram Stories. Here's what you need to know:

What's the difference between Twitter and Threads? 
There are many differences between Twitter and Threads even though the interface looks the same. With Twitter, you're expected to share your thoughts and feelings as well as keep up with current events. Threads is more geared for social networking.

On both platforms, you can share pictures, videos, and website links. You're limited to 280 characters on Twitter while Threads allows you to post 500 characters per post. There is direct messaging on Twitter, but none on Threads. Twitter has a strong hashtag presence but there isn't one on Threads. Also, Twitter is an independent app whereas Threads is tightly integrated into Instagram. Finally, you can use Twitter from a desktop computer and app while Threads is only available via an app.

How to get started with Threads. 
You're probably thinking "Oh no, not another social media app" but if you're a solo, small, or even large business, you might want to reconsider and embrace this new social media app. It's estimated that the Threads user count cruised past 30 million in under 24 hours. To get the app, just visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and download it to your device.

Once you've downloaded the app, you be asked to set up an account. The great thing about Threads is you can import your account information from Instagram and even follow the same people you follow on Instagram. Posting content is simple as Threads layout is pretty similar to an Instagram Feed and you can share pretty much the same content to Threads as you would to Instagram.

Why do you want to jump on another social media platform?
As of this writing, the Threads algorithm hasn't quite kicked in so you will see more content and fewer ads at this stage of the game. Also, if your company uses digital marketing, you should always have several social media accounts you post content to in the event that something happens to one or more of your accounts. With criminals targeting social media accounts, it's likely one of your accounts can fall into the hands of cybercriminals. Also, current algorithms can mistake innocent content you post as something malicious or offensive and you can wind up in social media jail or suffer a lifetime ban.

What about fake accounts? 
Do I need to worry about those? As with any social media account, you're bound to get criminals who set up shop at some point, but as of this writing, there aren't any fake accounts on the platform. If a criminal had an Instgram account they stole, it's possible they could transfer that account to Threads, so beware.

Is it safe? Is Threads looking at my data?
Don't be fooled into thinking this is a freebie from Meta as there are still privacy issues with Meta. The goal with Threads is to compete with Twitter, but the ultimate goal is for the tech giant Meta to pull even more users into its universe and to lure many who left Facebook back. Just like most social media apps, Threads is able to collect a wide range of personal information, including health, financial, contacts, browsing and search history, location data, purchases, and “sensitive info”. Just check out those terms of service. As with any social media account. Use strong passwords or passphrases to keep those accounts secure.

If you have a little free time this week, why not add another app to your smartphone or tablet? For the time being, you can experience an add free fun social media platform and perhaps connect with some friends you haven't seen in a while. Let me know your thoughts about Threads.

Hopefully, this post has given you the information you need to know about Meta's new app Threads. If you need further assistance, please reach out to me with any questions you might have. I am always happy to help!

Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to [email protected]. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone.