When Threads, Instagram’s answer to Twitter’s X (formerly known as Twitter), initially launched, it left many users longing for features typically associated with social media platforms. However, in recent months, Threads has been on a mission to enhance the user experience by introducing several new features, including polls, a GIF posting option, and the ability to quote posts on the web. These additions aim to provide a more robust experience. Still, the absence of an API has left third-party developers unable to create custom features that could make Threads an integral part of users’ daily lives.
One significant example of this limitation is the inability of local transportation agencies to automatically post service alerts when a train is delayed, a feature commonly found on other social networks like Twitter. Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, though, has hinted that Threads is actively working on an API for developers. However, he expressed concerns about how this API would be used, particularly in terms of the balance between publisher and creator content.
In a recent exchange on the platform, Mosseri responded to a user’s request for a TweetDeck-like experience on Threads, acknowledging that an API is in the works. He mentioned concerns about the possibility of an API leading to an influx of publisher content at the expense of creator-generated content, but he recognizes the importance of this development for the platform.
Previously, Mosseri clarified that Threads’ focus is on empowering creators rather than amplifying news, which may have disappointed publishers and readers looking for an alternative to X. In an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session on the platform, he expressed the long-term aspiration for Threads to become “the de facto platform for public conversations online,” aiming to be both culturally relevant and boast a substantial user base. He believes that Threads has the potential to surpass X, but acknowledges the journey ahead is long. For now, the team remains dedicated to enhancing the user experience incrementally.
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Instagram’s parent company, recently announced that Threads has “just under” 100 million monthly active users. He shares Mosseri’s optimism about the platform’s future, expressing confidence that Threads has a “good chance” of reaching 1 billion users within the next few years. The platform appears poised for significant growth, but it must continue to evolve to meet the needs of its expanding user base.
