The Mission of Threads
The tech world is always evolving, and social networks are no exception. A recent example is the launch of Threads, a new app from Meta positioned as serious competition to Twitter.
Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg has ambitious plans for Threads. In multiple statements, he expressed his goal of creating a platform for public conversations that could reach over a billion users. This is a clear response to Twitter and its owner Elon Musk, highlighting Meta’s ambition. Zuckerberg aims to make Threads a platform for friendly discourse, contrasting with what he perceives as Twitter’s rougher tone.
These ambitions are not just words. Shortly after its launch, Threads attracted millions of users, thanks to Meta’s enormous reach.
How Threads Works
Threads is closely linked to Instagram. When you sign up, your account is immediately connected to Instagram. You can also import your Instagram profile and follow the same people as on Instagram.
In many ways, Threads resembles Twitter. Its main feature is a feed where user posts can be commented on or shared. A key difference is that the feed combines posts from people you follow with algorithmically recommended content. On Twitter, you can choose to see only the posts from people you follow.
Currently, Threads does not support direct messaging, and its search function only allows finding other users, not trending topics. Meta has announced that additional features may be added soon.
Threads in Europe
Threads has launched in over 100 countries, but it is not yet available in the EU. Meta cites regulatory uncertainty, particularly regarding the Digital Markets Act, which limits how companies can share data between their platforms. Instagram chief Adam Mosseri noted that it might take some time for Threads to launch in the EU.
Installing and Using Threads in Germany
Even though Threads is not officially available in Germany, there are ways to install and use it on iPhone and Android devices. The EU restriction mainly affects app store availability and IP verification at login, both of which can be bypassed.
For iPhone: You need an Apple ID from a country where Threads is available (e.g., the USA or UK). After installing, you can return to the German App Store.
For Android: Installation is simpler but riskier. You must download the APK file and install it outside the Play Store.
To use the app, a VPN simulating a U.S. location may be required, though some users report it works without one.
It’s important to note that Threads is still in its early stages. Features like hashtags, topic searches, and a large German user base are not yet available, but this may change with future updates.
The Beginning of a New Rivalry and Legal Disputes
The launch of Threads marks the start of direct competition between two of America’s most successful entrepreneurs, Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. Twitter, recently acquired by Musk, has faced turbulence, including a loss of advertisers and user migration. Threads poses a significant threat, leveraging Meta’s financial resources and established platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
Recently, Twitter threatened legal action against Meta, alleging that confidential information and insider knowledge from Twitter were used to develop Threads. Twitter attorney Alex Spiro claimed Meta hired ex-Twitter employees to create a “copycat” app. Meta spokesperson Andy Stone denied these allegations, stating that no member of the Threads tech team had previously worked at Twitter. Twitter maintains the right to pursue civil or injunctive actions, emphasizing the enforcement of intellectual property rights.
Impressive User Numbers
Despite the potential legal battle, Threads quickly gained a massive user base. Within the first half-day, the app reportedly had 30 million users. Celebrities and brands like Shakira, Jack Black, Airbnb, Guinness World Records, Netflix, and Vogue joined within the first hours, boosting the app’s popularity.
An Uncertain Future
Despite its strong start, it remains unclear if Threads can maintain momentum. Analysts are divided: some see Meta’s platform as a major challenge to Twitter, while skeptics note that initial hype does not guarantee long-term success.
Future success depends heavily on resolving legal disputes with Twitter and navigating EU regulatory hurdles. The coming months will determine if Threads can genuinely challenge Twitter as the leading platform for public conversations.
