Just when you thought the social media landscape couldn’t get any more crowded, a new app has entered the scene. On 6 June 2023, Meta – the company behind Facebook and Instagram – launched their new app, Threads. In its first day, the platform gained over 30 million users. Released ahead of its original launch date, Threads is now available in app stores in over 100 countries. Let’s dive into this emerging platform to understand what it has to offer and how you can use it safely.
What is Threads?
Threads is officially described as an Instagram text-based conversation app where communities come together to discuss everything from today’s topics to what might be trending tomorrow. Similar to Twitter (which is even threatening legal action), users can share posts of up to 500 characters which can include links, up to 10 photos and videos up to five minutes long.
Threads allows you to log in with your existing Instagram account, import your profile with bio and links, and follow the same people you have on Instagram, whether they’ve made a new Threads account or not.
What do I need to know before I sign up?
Thinking about registering for Threads but not sure what it’s all about? We’ve got you covered.
With Threads’ swift popularity, it’s easy to see a future in which it’s a significant part of the social media scene. As a result, it’s crucial to be aware of its offerings and key considerations to bear in mind as an international student.
At first glance, there are a few potential benefits of the Threads app. With its conversation-based format, Threads is fundamentally centred around connection. It could allow you to keep in touch with friends and family back home, and keep them updated on your international adventures. Its higher character limit allows for more in-depth discussions and shared experiences. Coupled with the ability to post multiple photos, you can vividly document your educational journey.
Similarly, it could allow you to connect and collaborate with people in your academic and professional life. The platform’s features support group studies and collaborative projects, creating a dynamic virtual learning environment. On the app, you can also follow industry professionals and even potential employers to stay updated on job opportunities and industry trends in your field.
However, there are a few things to be mindful of before taking the plunge on Threads.
In our interconnected digital world, every action we take online leaves a trace – a digital footprint. This is just as true on Threads as it is on any other social media platform. Everything you share, like, comment on, or even the threads you follow, contributes to your digital footprint.
It’s important to be mindful of this footprint as it can be a reflection of your online persona and could be accessed or analysed by future employers or academic institutions. Hence, it’s advisable to manage your interactions on Threads or any other social media responsibly, ensuring they represent you appropriately.
It’s also crucial to consider your mental health before venturing onto a new platform. In some circumstances, social media can have dire effects on our mental wellbeing. As a result, it’s crucial to use such platforms mindfully, balancing your time online with other important aspects of life, particularly your studies.
How do I sign up for Threads?
Since it’s designed to work in tandem with Instagram, signing up for Threads is as simple as logging in with your Instagram credentials. If you don’t have an Instagram account yet, you’ll need to create one first. Once you’re in, you can choose between a public profile, allowing anyone to interact with your content, or a private profile, where only approved followers can interact.
After you’re all set up, you’ll find that the algorithm is already working its magic, crafting your feed based on your Instagram preferences. Many high-profile figures have already joined the buzzing platform (hello Prime Minister Albanese), so there are plenty of interesting profiles to follow!
Keep in mind that if you wish to delete your account after you’ve signed up, you currently also need to delete your Instagram. This has deterred some people from joining the app but is currently being looked into by the company, according to the Head of Instagram, Adam Mosserri.
What about my privacy?
For many people in Australia, cyber security is top of mind, particularly following last year’s data breaches that targeted some of the nation’s largest companies, including Medibank and Optus.
So, you might be wondering: how will my data be handled on Threads?
Regarding privacy, Meta, like many other social media giants, collects user data across various categories. Considering Meta’s controversial past with data privacy, it’s essential to comprehend what using Threads could imply. The company has been challenged multiple times over data privacy issues, including significant fines and lawsuits. They’ve even delayed Threads’ launch in the European Union due to new data regulations.
Threads can collect a variety of personal data from users according to iOS’s required disclosures. This includes your health and financial information, exact location, browsing and search history, contacts, and other sensitive details. Users need to be aware of this because the data collected can shape their online experience, influencing the content they see and the advertisements targeted towards them.
More importantly, once collected, this sensitive information might be vulnerable to data breaches. Understanding these data practices can help users make informed decisions about their privacy settings and how they interact with the platform.
