Meta’s new social media platform, Threads, launched with explosive growth and quickly became one of the most downloaded apps in the world. Connected directly to Instagram, the app offers a simpler and more personal alternative to Twitter/X — but it still lacks several important features that many users expect.
Threads reached nearly 100 million signups within its first 48 hours
Threads, the new social media platform created by Meta and connected to Instagram, officially launched during the first week of July and experienced a meteoric rise, reaching more than 97 million signups within its first 48 hours.
At first glance, the app looks and feels very similar to Twitter/X. However, there are several important differences that may influence whether users — especially Brazilians living in the United States — decide to adopt the platform or stay with Twitter.
Let’s take a closer look at the key features, advantages, and limitations of Threads.
1. Threads Is Directly Connected to Instagram
One of the biggest differences is that Threads is linked to your Instagram account. Users can automatically import their:
- Bio
- Username
- Profile photo
- Followers and following lists
This integration makes it much easier to start using the app without rebuilding a new audience from scratch.
For Instagram users, Threads creates a more seamless and familiar experience, allowing people to interact with the same communities they already follow.
2. Longer Posts Than Twitter/X
Threads offers a more flexible writing experience.
While regular Twitter/X users are limited to 280 characters, Threads allows posts with up to 500 characters.
This feature gives users more space to share opinions, updates, and conversations without needing long threads or premium subscriptions.
3. A Simpler Feed Experience
Unlike Twitter/X, Threads currently operates with only one main feed.
Users see:
- Posts from people they follow
- Recommended content suggested by the algorithm
This simpler structure may appeal to users looking for a less chaotic social media experience.
Twitter/X, on the other hand, includes multiple sections such as:
- Home feed
- Mentions
- Notifications
- Trending topics
4. Threads Still Lacks Several Important Features
Unlike Twitter/X, Threads is directly connected to your Instagram account
Although the app gained immediate popularity, Threads launched with fewer features than Twitter/X.
At the moment, the platform does not include:
- Direct messages (DMs)
- Hashtags
- Advanced search
- Account switching
- Paid advertising
- A desktop version
Meta may add these tools in future updates, but for now, Threads remains a more limited platform.
5. Threads Is Not Available Everywhere
Due to privacy and regulatory concerns, Threads was initially unavailable in the European Union.
Currently, the app is available in approximately 100 countries, including:
- The United States
- Brazil
- Canada
- Australia
- Japan
- The United Kingdom
However, availability may still vary depending on local regulations and privacy laws.
Is Threads Good for Business and Marketing?
For creators, entrepreneurs, and brands, Threads may offer interesting opportunities.
The platform appears to focus on:
- Closer communities
- Casual conversations
- More personal engagement
Some marketing experts compare Threads to a modern version of “Facebook Groups 2.0”, where audience interaction may become more valuable than viral reach.
Businesses that already have strong Instagram communities could benefit from adopting Threads early.
Important Things to Consider Before Joining Threads
Before creating an account, users should know a few important details:
You Cannot Fully Delete Threads Without Affecting Instagram
One of the most controversial aspects of Threads is that deleting a Threads account may also require deleting the connected Instagram account.
This raised concerns among users who wanted to test the app without fully committing to Meta’s ecosystem.
Threads Is Still Under Development
For businesses and creators, Threads may become a modern version of Facebook Groups 2.0
Because the platform is relatively new, many features are still being tested and improved.
Users may experience:
- Missing functions
- Interface changes
- Algorithm adjustments
- Feature updates over time
The App May Continue Expanding Globally
Meta is expected to gradually expand the platform’s capabilities and international reach as regulatory and privacy concerns evolve.
Final Thoughts: Is Threads Worth It?
Threads offers a cleaner and more personal social media experience, especially for users already active on Instagram.
For Brazilians living in the United States, the app may become a useful way to:
- Stay connected with friends and communities
- Follow creators and influencers
- Build audiences for personal brands or businesses
However, users looking for advanced features, real-time news, and a more complete platform may still prefer Twitter/X.
At least for now, Threads feels less like a replacement for Twitter and more like a complementary social network focused on conversation and community.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Threads?
Threads is a social media app created by Meta and connected directly to Instagram. It was designed as a competitor to Twitter/X.
Is Threads available in the United States?
Yes. Threads is available in the U.S. and in many other countries, including Brazil, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Can I use Threads without Instagram?
No. Users currently need an Instagram account to create and access a Threads profile.
Does Threads have direct messages?
No. At the moment, Threads does not offer direct messaging functionality.
Is Threads better than Twitter/X?
It depends on the user’s goals. Threads offers a simpler and more community-focused experience, while Twitter/X still provides more advanced features and broader real-time discussions.