Meta has recently unveiled a significant update for Threads, introducing a new TweetDeck-style interface for desktop users.
This new layout allows users to create multiple columns dedicated to their favorite topics, displaying real-time feeds for each. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased the new interface, highlighting how it enables users to follow live conversations on their chosen topics seamlessly.
According to Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, the updated design lets users pin separate columns for searches, tags, accounts, saved posts, and notifications. This setup closely resembles TweetDeck, now rebranded as “X Pro,” which is exclusively available to paying subscribers.
The new interface could be a game-changer for Threads, enhancing its capability for real-time discussion. This is particularly important for a platform designed to rival Twitter, where real-time conversation is a core feature. However, Threads has previously been cautious about adopting real-time feeds due to concerns over spam, misinformation, and negative content.
Meta aims to cultivate a positive real-time social experience with Threads. To achieve this, it is distancing itself from news and politics and limiting the number of hashtags per post. The company has also been hesitant to add chronological sorting options, fearing that real-time feeds might be overrun with low-quality content.
However, Threads is gradually embracing real-time updates. Earlier this week, the platform introduced a “Recent” sorting option in search results, though these results are still curated for quality. This brings Threads closer to offering live-stream content on various topics, aligning it more closely with what users seek in a Twitter alternative.
Meta has been careful not to replicate Twitter’s approach exactly, avoiding the pitfalls it has identified in Twitter’s methods. Nevertheless, as more users leave Elon Musk’s X project, they are in search of a viable replacement, and Threads is emerging as a strong contender.
While other Twitter competitors have shut down recently due to lack of traction, Threads continues to gain momentum, now boasting 150 million monthly active users. Although this is still far from X’s 500 million MAUs, the growth of Threads is notable. Despite a slowdown in adoption, the introduction of more Twitter-like features and tools could help Threads become a formidable challenger.
The key to Threads’ success lies in enabling real-time discovery and engagement. This new desktop update is a significant step towards achieving that goal, offering users a more dynamic and interactive experience.
Meta is currently testing this new desktop layout with selected users, signaling a move towards broader availability shortly. As Threads continues to evolve, it might just become the Twitter replacement many users have been waiting for.
