In a recent announcement, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, introduced significant updates to its text-based social media platform, Threads.
The platform, initially an extension of Instagram, faced criticism for its integrated profile system, where deleting a Threads profile meant deleting the associated Instagram account. Responding to user feedback, Adam Mosseri, the Head of Instagram, unveiled two major developments aimed at enhancing user control and experience.
Independent Profile Deactivation
The primary concern addressed by Meta was the inability to delete or deactivate a Threads profile without affecting the linked Instagram account. Previously, users had no choice but to delete both accounts simultaneously.
Acknowledging the frustration this caused, Mosseri announced, “We’re rolling out a way for you to delete your Threads profile separately from your Instagram account.”
The process involves navigating to Settings » Account » Delete or Deactivate Profile, providing users with a more flexible approach to managing their Threads presence. This update reflects Meta’s commitment to listening to user feedback and adapting its platforms accordingly.
Opting Out of Cross-Platform Sharing
A recent Threads feature that automatically shared posts on Facebook and Instagram received mixed reactions. To address privacy concerns and provide users with more control over their content dissemination, Meta is introducing an opt-out feature.
Users can now choose not to share their Threads posts on other platforms by accessing Settings » Privacy. This empowers users to define the scope of their online presence, aligning with Meta’s ongoing efforts to prioritize user privacy and customization.
Introduction of Tags on Threads
Recognizing the importance of content discovery through tags on social media, Meta is introducing a tagging feature on Threads. Currently in testing in Australia, with plans for a broader rollout, this feature allows users to add hashtags to their posts, enhancing searchability and categorization.
Users can simply prefix a word with a hash symbol to create a tag, similar to the hashtag system on platforms like Instagram. This addition aligns Threads more closely with established social media norms and facilitates a more dynamic and organized content experience.
Steady Growth and New Features
Despite not yet being available in Europe, Threads has demonstrated consistent growth, boasting nearly 100 million monthly active users. The recent updates, including independent profile deactivation, the ability to opt-out of cross-platform sharing, and the introduction of tags, contribute to a more refined and user-friendly experience.
Pinned posts and hints at potential direct message integration within Instagram’s inbox further solidify Threads as a versatile and evolving social media platform.
