Meta Platforms, the company formerly known as Facebook, has announced the launch of the web version of its new text-based social media app Threads. The app, which debuted in July, allows users to create and join communities based on their interests and passions.
Mark Zuckerberg
Threads was initially available only as a mobile app, but Meta said on Tuesday that users can now access the platform by logging in to its website from their computers. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in a Threads post that the web version would reach users “over the next few days.
The web version of Threads is expected to help the platform gain broader acceptance among professional users, such as brands, company accounts, advertisers, and journalists, who can now take advantage of the platform by using it on a bigger screen. Threads also offer features such as voice notes, polls, stickers, and emojis to make text conversations more engaging and interactive.
Threads launched as a rival to X, the former Twitter, which rebranded itself in August after Square, a payments company led by Jack Dorsey, acquired it. X has been struggling with user growth and revenue in recent years, as it faced competition from other social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.
Threads reported 100 million sign-ups in 5 days post July 5 launch, but popularity waned as users returned to X after the initial surge. As per Similarweb, daily active Android users for Threads plummeted from 49.3 million at its peak to 10.3 million in a month.
Meta plans to augment the web experience with live audio rooms, video stories, and direct messages in the upcoming weeks. Amid criticism for handling misinformation and hate speech, the company focuses on refining moderation and safety tools across Threads.
Meta aims to draw users seeking text-centric social media, fostering self-expression and connections around shared interests through Threads. The company also hopes that Threads will help it diversify its revenue sources, as it faces regulatory scrutiny and antitrust lawsuits over its dominance in online advertising.
Conclusion
Meta Platforms debuts web Threads, a text-based social app rivaling X, the former Twitter, expanding its digital presence. The web version aims to attract more professional users who prefer using computers over phones. Amid online advertising challenges and regulatory pressure, Meta aims to enhance Threads’ features, moderation, and safety for user experience.
