Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on Friday that Threads, the company’s competitor to X (formerly Twitter), will begin testing custom feeds for specific topics and profiles. This new feature aims to make it easier for users to find communities and conversations that resonate with their interests. The announcement comes in the wake of the rapid growth of Bluesky, a social networking startup that has gained traction for its user-centric tools, allowing individuals to build their own algorithms, create lists, and set moderation rules.
The Rise of Bluesky
Bluesky’s adoption has surged following the recent U.S. presidential election. As X has increasingly adopted a right-wing focus under Elon Musk’s ownership, many left-leaning users have sought alternatives. Bluesky’s user base skyrocketed from around 700,000 new users added in a week to an astonishing 1 million sign-ups in just 24 hours. This shift highlights a growing demand for platforms that prioritize user control and community engagement.
Threads’ Response to User Demands
In light of Bluesky’s momentum, Threads is responding to user demands for further personalization and customization. Currently, Threads defaults to a “For You” algorithmic feed, which has faced criticism for not providing real-time updates, especially during significant events like election night. The introduction of custom feeds allows users to curate their own content by following specific individuals or topics, thereby enhancing their overall experience on the platform.
To create a custom feed, users can search for a topic, tap on the three-dot icon next to it, and select “create new feed.” Additionally, users can add specific profiles to their feeds by visiting those profiles and using the same three-dot menu. However, it’s important to note that not all Threads users have access to this feature yet, as it is still in the testing phase.
User Interface Challenges
Despite the excitement surrounding custom feeds, some users have expressed frustration with Threads’ user interface. The method for accessing custom feeds remains somewhat hidden, which could hinder user engagement. Many users were unaware that a Following feed existed, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction with the platform’s content delivery. As Threads continues to evolve, addressing these interface challenges will be crucial for retaining users and attracting new ones.
The Impact of Stephen King’s Exit from X
I'm leaving Twitter. Tried to stay, but the atmosphere has just become too toxic. Follow me on Threads, if you like.
— Stephen King (@StephenKing) November 14, 2024
Adding to the narrative of user migration between platforms, author Stephen King recently announced his departure from X for Threads. King, who has been vocal about his discontent with Musk’s management of X, stated, “I’m leaving Twitter. Tried to stay, but the atmosphere has just become too toxic. Follow me on Threads, if you like.” His move is likely to influence his 7 million followers on X, many of whom may consider making the switch to Threads.
King’s first post on Threads was a critical commentary on Trump’s cabinet picks, showcasing his continued engagement with political discourse. This kind of high-profile migration underscores the shifting dynamics in social media, where users are increasingly seeking platforms that align with their values and provide a healthier online environment.
Threads vs. Bluesky: The Battle for Users
As Threads and Bluesky vie for users, the question remains whether Threads’ introduction of custom feeds will be enough to stem the tide of new users flocking to Bluesky. Currently, Threads boasts over 275 million monthly active users, with an additional 15 million sign-ups reported in November alone. However, the platform must continue to innovate and respond to user feedback to maintain its lead in the competitive landscape of social media.
The introduction of custom feeds is a step in the right direction, but Threads must also address its user interface challenges to ensure that users can easily navigate and utilize these new features. As the social media landscape continues to evolve, platforms that prioritize user experience and community engagement will likely emerge as the frontrunners.
Conclusion
Meta’s Threads is at a pivotal moment as it tests custom feeds in an effort to enhance user experience and compete with Bluesky. The recent surge in Bluesky’s popularity, particularly among left-leaning users disillusioned with X, highlights the need for platforms to adapt to user demands for personalization and community engagement. As high-profile users like Stephen King make the switch to Threads, the platform has an opportunity to solidify its position as a leading alternative to X.
For more information on Threads’ new features, you can check out Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement here and read about Bluesky’s recent growth here. Additionally, you can view Stephen King’s announcement about leaving X here. As the competition heats up, it will be interesting to see how these platforms evolve and what new features they will introduce to attract and retain users.
And for those interested in exploring Bluesky’s features, you can check out this embedded post that highlights how feed creation could work more effectively.
- Web 2.0 Summit Day Two - Mark Zuckerberg and John Batelle
- (CC) Brian Solis, www.briansolis.com, bub.blicio.us. Feel free to use this picture. Please credit as shown.