What is Threads?
We’ve all heard of it, but what exactly is it? Threads is the new shiny social media platform developed by Meta, and is acting as a direct competitor with Twitter. Similarities between the two are apparent and very hard to ignore; on Threads, users can post threads, allowing others to like, reply, repost, or quote their content. What sets it apart from Twitter though is that the platform seamlessly integrates with Instagram, enabling users to share Threads directly to their story or Instagram feed using pre-made templates. Though predominantly text-based, Threads supports the addition of photos and videos alongside your posts. Furthermore, Threads allows 500 characters per post, surpassing Twitter's 280-character limit.
The Rise to the Top
The app had a quick rise to the top. Bursting on the scene with little prior promotion, it seemed to capture the attention of millions worldwide. Proof of this can be seen in their number of users. In just five days, the platform achieved a milestone of 100 million users. To put this into perspective, the previous record holder, ChatGPT, took two months to achieve the same level of users, making Threads a remarkable 12 times faster in user growth. Currently available in 30 languages and utilised in 100 countries, Threads has truly made its mark.
Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg stated that, "The vision for Threads is to create an open and friendly public space for conversation. We aim to leverage Instagram's strengths and build a new experience around text, ideas, and engaging discussions."
Strong Brands on Threads
Wendy's
- Known for their Twitter success, Wendy's has quickly adapted to Threads. They continue their successful strategy by sharing witty comments, roasting competitors, and maintaining an overall ‘hectic’ and active persona on the platform.
PrettyLittleThing
- With 500k followers as of 12th July 2023, PrettyLittleThing has made a strong debut on Threads. Their content features relatable lifestyle posts, showcasing influencers wearing their products, and interacts with other brands. The power of brand interaction on Threads is evident, as even a simple reply can kick-start key engagements.
The most successful brands on Threads have leveraged real-time conversations, injected humour into their posts, and showcased lifestyle-related content. Threads serves as a compelling replacement for Twitter, providing an ideal space for brands to engage with their audience.
Creating a Profile
To get started on Threads, simply sign up using your existing Instagram profile. Your username, password, and account name will remain the same. However, you have the freedom to personalise your Threads bio to make it unique and representative of your online persona.
Deleting Your Threads Account
While deactivating your Threads profile is possible, permanently deleting it without affecting your Instagram account is not currently supported. If you delete your Threads account, it will be removed alongside your Instagram profile. (Definitely a downside to the platform!)
Threads has stormed onto the social media scene, offering a captivating alternative to traditional platforms like Twitter. Its rapid growth and integration with Instagram make it an enticing option for brands and individuals. As an agency we are testing the waters with Threads daily to see if our clients should have a presence on here, but if you’re looking to get your brand on Threads, get in touch with our team and we can help with your marketing strategy to see if Threads will help you achieve your goals: https://www.creativepod.uk.com/contact-us.