Instagram Threads has made its debut at a time when Twitter users are grappling with controversial changes on the platform that may potentially lead to an exodus from the long-standing micro-blogging site, which has been around for 16 years.
With the introduction of Threads, Meta has set its sights on Twitter, capitalizing on Instagram’s immense popularity to establish a new hub for sharing short-form content. Within mere hours of its launch, Threads has garnered a substantial following, including verified brand accounts and an impressive array of notable personalities.
While it is evident that Threads is still a work in progress, there are several ways in which it incorporates Twitter features to cater to Instagram users. One might even argue that Threads outshines Twitter in certain aspects. However, it is important to note that Threads is not intended as a replacement for Twitter, as both platforms serve different purposes, and there are notable distinctions in how they are utilized.
Threads can be downloaded and used for free, without any hidden features locked behind a paywall. Currently, Threads does not display any advertisements, although this may change in the future, considering Instagram’s increasing emphasis on ads and shopping experiences.
On the other hand, Twitter incorporates ads into its platform. Additionally, Twitter offers an exclusive set of features available to subscribers of its “Twitter Blue” subscription tier, priced at $8 per month or $84 per year. These features are regularly updated, and as of now, Twitter Blue users can enjoy functionalities such as the ability to edit a tweet after it has been sent, customize the appearance of the Twitter app icon, and recently, a higher rate limit for reading Tweets per day.
When scrolling through your Threads feed, you may come across account handles with blue checkmarks next to them, indicating that the user is verified. The verification status on Threads is directly linked to the verification status on Instagram. So, if you are verified on Instagram, you will automatically be verified on Threads. To determine if you qualify for verification, you can refer to Instagram’s guidelines.
On the other hand, Twitter’s verification process is more intricate. Previously, before Elon Musk’s involvement, Twitter followed similar verification guidelines to Instagram, considering your public presence. However, the current verification system on Twitter includes the option to purchase a verification badge through a Twitter Blue subscription. There are a few exceptions, such as government accounts being marked with a grey check and certain well-established organizations and news outlets receiving a gold check.
