New Delhi: The President of Global Affairs at Meta, Nick Clegg, talked about the just-released Threads app. The sharp fall in active users has been in the news. Clegg, though, analysed why there appeared to be a reduction in interest and buzz before its initial publication. In addition to highlighting the app’s unique characteristics that set it apart from other microblogging sites like Twitter, Clegg remained upbeat about its potential.
Clegg agreed that a spike in interest and users is typical for new applications. However, it’s normal for the initial excitement to fade as some users look at alternatives in an exclusive interview. He emphasised that this behaviour is expected and that Meta had effectively dealt with issues like this when they launched earlier apps like Instagram and Facebook.
Concerned about the drop in user engagement, Clegg explained that Threads is still in development and has many untapped features that will be added over time. This iterative app development method is consistent with Meta’s prior learnings and enables them to build a strong user base and gradually improve the user experience.
Clegg emphasised the app’s function as a microblogging site that makes it possible to share news, opinions and engage in arguments with others when questioned about the distinctive appeal of Threads that would persuade users to switch from Twitter to this new platform. He emphasised that Threads targets a particular group of people looking for a platform to engage more warmly and naturally with creators, influencers, and others who share their interests. The app seeks to offer a more compassionate alternative to the existing social media environment.
Clegg said, “There are just a lot of people looking for a micro-blogging site where they can share News and Views and debate with people about fashion or sport. Particularly when it’s led by people who admire creators, influencers and so on who don’t necessarily find Twitter particularly attractive right now and want something which is a slightly kinder alternative.”
Moreover, Clegg unveiled Meta’s vision for Threads to become part of the “diverse.” This approach would allow users to seamlessly share their content on other platforms like Mastodon, creating a more open and interconnected ecosystem. Clegg claimed that unlike “closed walled gardens”, this federated approach promotes content interoperability across different sites, fostering a more dynamic and collaborative user experience.
