How to use Threads by Meta, Instagram new rival to Twitter

How to use Threads by Meta, An Instagram

Threads is an innovative online social media and social networking service, owned by the renowned American technology company, Meta Platforms. With similar functionality to other microblogging platforms like Twitter, Threads allows users to share text, images, and videos, as well as engage with posts through replies, reposts, and likes.

The app is readily available on iOS and Android devices, offering full functionality, while its web version currently provides limited functionality, with plans for expansion in the near future.

Since its launch, Threads has experienced phenomenal growth, amassing a staggering 80 million users within its initial 48 hours. This remarkable achievement not only demonstrates its immense popularity but also surpasses the previous record for rapid user signups, previously held by ChatGPT.

Threads operates in conjunction with Instagram, requiring users to have an existing Instagram account for sign-up, and mandating the use of the same handle across both platforms. The app’s development was initiated following Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter, which led Meta employees to contemplate the integration of a text-based feature called Instagram Notes. However, further discussions led to the creation of Threads, a distinct and independent app focused on text-based content.

As Threads continues to make waves in the social media landscape, its rapid user adoption and seamless integration with Instagram make it an enticing platform for users seeking a dynamic and engaging microblogging experience.

How to join Threads

To become a part of the Threads community, follow these straightforward steps:

Threads is a standalone app separate from the Instagram app. To find it, open the App Store (for iPhone users) or Google Play (for Android users) on your phone.
In the search bar of the respective app store, type in “Threads, an Instagram app” to locate the Threads app.
Once you find the Threads app, download and install it on your device.
Open the Threads app and you will be greeted with a login screen. To proceed, tap the “Log in with Instagram” button located at the bottom of the screen.
As Threads requires an Instagram account to be used, you will be prompted to log in to your Instagram account.
After logging in, you will have the option to follow the people you already follow on Instagram within the Threads app.

By following these steps, you can easily join the Threads app, allowing you to explore its unique features and engage with other users in a more focused and streamlined social media experience.

How to navigate the app

Upon logging in, you will be directed to your Threads feed. This feed displays posts from both the accounts you follow and random users you haven’t followed yet.
Look at the bottom of your screen to find a row of icons that serve as navigation tools. From left to right, they are:

House Icon: Tap this icon to return to your feed, where you can view the latest posts from accounts you follow.
Magnifying Glass Icon: Selecting this icon will take you to the search page. Here, you can type in the usernames of specific users you wish to follow or explore new accounts.
Pen-and-Paper Icon: This icon allows you to create a new thread. By tapping on it, you can compose a post and share it with your audience.
Heart Icon: Access your account activity by clicking on this icon. It displays various interactions such as followers, thread replies, mentions, and verified users.
Human Figure Icon: Tap on this icon to access your Threads profile. Here, you can view your activity, track engagement, and manage your account settings.

With these intuitive icons at your fingertips, navigating Threads becomes a seamless experience. Enjoy exploring the content, engaging with others, and customizing your profile with ease.

How to create a thread

To create a compelling thread on Threads, follow these straightforward steps:

Locate the pen-and-paper icon, situated in the center of the navigation bar. Click on it to initiate the process of creating a new thread post.
Compose your thread post within the provided text box. Keep in mind that the post is limited to 500 characters, encouraging concise and focused content.
Enhance your thread post by incorporating visual elements. To do this, tap on the paper clip icon located just below the text box. This allows you to add a photo, video, or GIF to complement your written content.

By following these steps, you can create engaging and visually appealing thread posts on Threads. Make the most of the character limit and utilize multimedia elements to captivate your audience and encourage meaningful interactions.

How to engage with Thread users

To actively engage with other users on Threads, follow these steps:

Click on the profile of the user you wish to engage with and open one of their threads.
Under the text of the thread, you will find four icons arranged from left to right:
- Heart Icon: Tap this icon to “like” the thread, expressing your appreciation for the content.
- Dialog Box Icon: Click this icon to reply directly to the thread, enabling you to participate in the conversation.
- Reverse Symbol Icon: Touch this icon to repost the thread to your own feed. You can also add a quote or additional comments before sharing.
- Paper Plane Icon: Hit this icon to add the thread to your Instagram story or post it on your Instagram feed.
Additionally, you can press the “copy link” button to retrieve the URL of the thread. Furthermore, by using the “share via…” buttons, you can send the thread through various channels such as text, email, AirDrop (for iPhone users), or other social media platforms on your phone.
Remember that you can also engage with individual responses within the thread using the same set of icons. Users have the ability to like, repost, and respond to specific responses, fostering a dynamic and interactive community experience.

By following these steps, you can actively engage with other Threads users, contributing to conversations, showing appreciation, and sharing content with your own audience.

How to set time limits

If you need help in regulating your app usage and ensuring a healthy balance, Threads offers a convenient feature that can remind you to take breaks at regular intervals, ranging from every 10 to 30 minutes. To access this feature, follow these steps:

Open the Threads app and tap on the human figure icon to access your profile.
Look for the icon with two lines, which represents your account settings, and tap on it.
Within the account settings, locate and select the “Account” button.
In the Account settings, you will find the “Take a break feature” that allows you to set time limits.
Tap on this option to choose from a range of time-limit options that suit your preferences.

By utilizing this feature, you can proactively manage your time spent on the app and maintain a healthier digital lifestyle.

How to change your privacy settings

If you want to modify your privacy settings on Threads, follow these simple steps:

Open the Threads app and tap on the human figure icon to access your profile.
Look for the “Edit profile” button and tap on it to proceed.
Within the profile editing section, locate and select the option labeled “Private profile.”
By tapping on “Private profile,” you can choose whether you want your profile to be public or private.

Through these steps, you can easily customize your privacy settings on Threads, giving you control over who can view your profile and ensuring a personalized experience on the platform.