Meta’s Threads has seen a ton of success backlit by Twitter’s latest blunder. While the platform seems pretty empty, Meta is looking to fix that. Threads is adding three new features that you’ll love. It’s also adding one that you might not like.
Thanks to the recent data, it’s clear that the honeymoon phase is over. Overall engagement and time spent on Threads have all dropped significantly since its launch. This shows that the excitement for the app has died down. While this is the case, we expect its numbers to rise again when Meta brings more features to the app.
Threads is bringing three new features
It was only a matter of time before Meta could sprinkle new features on Threads. There are some features that people have been griping about since day one. According to Insider (via Techradar), there’s a leaked document that explains some new features that Meta is going to bring.
The first new feature is a DM (direct messaging) system. People are eager to get out and contact their new Threads friends directly. Your Threads account is tied to your Instagram account. Ostensibly, most of the people you know on Threads should already be accessible via Instagram.
However, it’s a nice feature to have, as people are making new connections on the new app. We’re not sure if your DMs on Threads will be tied to your DMs on Instagram.
The second feature is Trends & Topics. Right now on Threads, you’re able to see a feed of algorithmically-curated posts. You’ll see posts from those you follow and people you don’t. However, this feature will show you the latest news on different topics. We’re talking about politics, sports, science, etc.
Lastly, the third feature is Improved Search. You’re able to search for accounts on Threads at the moment, but that’s it. There’s no hashtag system, so there’s not much to search for.
The document states that it will get an improved search experience. The document doesn’t go into detail about how it’s going to improve the experience. However, we can suspect that you’ll be able to search topics. Who knows if this means that Threads is going to add hashtags?
Now, for the one you won’t like…
Let’s rip the bandaid off: Rate Limits. However, it’s different from what we have with Twitter. If you recall, Twitter limited the number of Tweets that all accounts could see. It didn’t matter if you were a verified account, an unverified account, a new account, or an old account. You were limited.
In the case of Threads, the rate limits will only apply to accounts believed to be spam accounts. That’s bitter-sweet. It’s good because, if you’re just an average Joe posting live events and hot takes, then you’re good. However, it could be an issue if your account is falsely accused of being a spam account.
If your account is limited, there’s an appeals process that could take a couple of days. It’s tedious, but it’s worth it to have your account back.