In response to Twitter’s recent limitations, Meta Platforms, formerly known as Facebook, is gearing up to launch Threads, a microblogging app.
The move is to provide an alternative platform for users seeking unrestricted communication.
The announcement comes just days after the executive chair of Twitter, Elon Musk introduced a temporary cap on the number of posts users can read on the popular social media site.
Threads, originally introduced as Instagram’s text-based conversation app, is scheduled to be released this Thursday.
According to a listing on the Apple App Store, the app will allow users to seamlessly follow the same accounts they already engage with on the photo-sharing platform while retaining their existing usernames.
Twitter’s recent implementation of restrictions, including the requirement of verification to use TweetDeck, has drawn criticism and prompted a strong backlash from users.
Ad experts have voiced concerns that these measures could undermine the authority of newly appointed CEO, Linda Yaccarino, who assumed the role just last month.
When contacted by Reuters for comment regarding a potential launch on the Google Play Store, Meta Platforms did not immediately respond, leaving room for speculation about their broader plans.
Meanwhile, in the midst of the controversy surrounding Twitter, alternative platforms such as Bluesky and Mastodon have experienced a surge in users and activity.
Bluesky, a project spearheaded by Twitter co-founder, Jack Dorsey that is currently in beta mode, reported “record high traffic” on Saturday and temporarily halted new sign-ups.
Similarly, Mastodon, under the leadership of its creator and CEO Eugen Rochko, witnessed a staggering increase of 110,000 active users on the same day.
