In a bid to refine its platform and align more closely with Twitter-like features, Threads has rolled out two significant updates: custom feeds and a dedicated media tab on profiles. These changes aim to offer users more control over their content and a streamlined way to engage with the platform.
New Media Tab for Easy Access to Visual Content
One of the most notable updates is the introduction of a new Media tab on user profiles. This feature mirrors what’s already available on X (formerly Twitter), allowing users to filter posts specifically by images and videos. With this addition, users can easily browse visual content from their favorite profiles, making it simpler to find and engage with posts that are rich in multimedia.
This media-focused feature enhances the browsing experience, especially for those who prefer visual content or want a quick overview of what a particular profile shares. By aligning this function with established social media norms, Threads is making its platform more intuitive and user-friendly.
Custom Feeds to Tailor Your Content Experience
In addition to the media tab, Threads is also rolling out custom feeds, giving users the ability to create personalized streams based on selected profiles or specific keywords. Much like Twitter’s lists, this feature allows you to group posts that match your interests into a dedicated feed, accessible directly from the main app interface.
This means users can curate content around specific topics or from particular creators, making it easier to stay updated on discussions that matter most. While you can sort these feeds by “Recent” to catch the latest updates, it’s worth noting that this isn’t set as the default view, and you’ll need to toggle it each time you visit—a small inconvenience that keeps Meta’s algorithmic ranking system in play.
Balancing User Demands with Platform Strategy
Instagram chief Adam Mosseri has been vocal about bringing more Twitter-like features to Threads, even though he’s skeptical about their impact on overall user engagement. Mosseri has stated that while user-requested features like lists, edit buttons, and trending feeds are worthwhile additions, they don’t necessarily translate into measurable growth for the platform.
“My honest take is that requested features like lists, an edit button, a following feed, trending, and hashtags are all good to build, but none noticeably grow Threads or Threads usage. We’ll continue to build them because it’s good to build features that your most engaged users are excited about, but it’s hard to prioritize them when the measurable impact is negligible,” Mosseri explained.
While these features may not significantly boost user numbers, they do enhance the user experience by providing more reasons and opportunities to engage. Custom feeds, for instance, allow users to streamline their content consumption, making the platform feel more tailored and less overwhelming. Additionally, the inclusion of hashtags could still serve as a valuable tool for linking posts to real-time discussions, despite being less central than they once were.
Looking Ahead: More Updates to Come
As Threads continues to evolve, it’s clear that the platform is committed to adapting popular social media features that cater to user demands, even if they don’t drive significant growth. By introducing tools that allow for better content management and engagement, Threads is positioning itself as a versatile platform that respects user preferences while maintaining its strategic direction.
With these updates, Threads is not just chasing trends but actively shaping a user-friendly environment that promotes engagement through personalization and accessibility. Whether these features will significantly impact the platform’s growth remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly enhance the overall user experience, keeping Threads in step with current social media dynamics.
