Threads, the messaging app created by Meta, has been
steadily growing and introducing new features to compete with Twitter. In
recent weeks, the app has been testing out post drafts internally and has now
launched a live test of this option with selected users.
Drafts is one of the most requested features for the app.
Some users testing the new feature now see a "Drafts" option when
composing a post. They can save an unfinished post as a draft to come back to
later instead of having to start over if they exit the app.
Currently users are limited to only one saved draft at a
time, but this is a good starting point to allow for more thoughtful
compositions. All parts of a thread will also be saved together if the user
exits while still working on it.
In addition to post drafts, Threads has integrated a camera
function for the first time. Users in the test can now take a single photo
directly from within the app to include with their post. While only one photo
per post for now, the camera provides another tool for self-expression on the
platform. These new features help expand the capabilities of Threads as it
works to compete with other social media giants.
Despite gaining many former Twitter users, Threads is still
far behind the network in overall users. Certain communities like sports fans
remain very active on Twitter due to features like live commentary.
Threads has not prioritized real-time discussions yet with
its focus more on positivity. It is now testing trending topics but the
de-emphasis of news and politics may limit its reach for many discussions. Only
time will tell if Threads can truly become a viable Twitter alternative.
The app also recently opened up its content moderation
process, allowing users to appeal removal decisions to the Oversight Board like
other Meta platforms. This provides a new avenue for those who disagree with
moderation calls on Threads.
However, growing the platform overall is still the bigger
challenge facing the company. Some feel Meta's vision of a less controversial
space will not satisfy users' interests in engaging with diverse topics. Both
the company and users will need to find a middle ground.
For those creating content on Threads, new drafting and
photo features should help produce higher quality posts. However, the limited
draft slots and single photo upload may still frustrate some users. As Threads
tests new tools with select groups, feedback from those trial runs will be
important for improving the experience.
Platforms featured on the SMM panel at Great SMM often get
feedback from clients on new releases to help enhance features before broader
launch. Continued development based on input from real users on Threads will be
key to its long term success and ability to compete in the social media
landscape.
While Threads introduces useful new drafting and camera
functions, growing its overall audience will take more time. Whether Meta's
vision of less controversy aligns with human tendencies to engage diverse
topics remains to be seen. For those involved in social media marketing, it's
worth keeping an eye on Threads and other networks featured regularly on the
SMM panel at Great SMM to see where engagement and conversations are trending
across platforms.