While most of the features mimic those of Twitter, its user interface design resembles that of Instagram, with the same heart, same comment and share buttons, and similarly placed tabs.
Threads joins a growing list of platforms like Bluesky and Spill, as well as older competitors like Mastodon, seeking to challenge Twitter’s dominance in the microblogging sphere.
Once logged in, new users who have Instagram accounts are told that their account should keep the same usernames, but they can access a different timeline and link to their profiles. Verified Instagram users will also carry their verification marks to Threads. Users can then choose to bulk follow all the accounts they already follow on Instagram, including pre-following anyone who hasn’t joined Threads yet.
In his first thread, Zuckerberg wrote “Let’s do it. Welcome to Threads” with a fire emoji. It’s dated from two days ago, when some big names seemed to get early access.
Others on the app as of Wednesday’s launch included Jennifer Lopez and Tom Brady, as well as brands like HBO and publishers like Teen Vogue.
Accounts that users have already blocked on Instagram will automatically be blocked on Threads as well. Those who wish to limit interactions can choose to allow replies from everyone, accounts they follow, or mentions (users they directly tagged in a thread) only. They can also choose to restrict self-mentions to only the accounts they follow or opt out entirely.
Instagram’s community guidelines will apply on Threads, and users can report each other for violations. Similar to Twitter, users can choose to hide specific words or phrases from their feeds.
Prior to launch, Meta had reportedly given select creators early access to test out its features and encourage people to join.