Meta’s social media platform Threads has undergone a significant update with the introduction of tags without the hashtag symbol being made available globally. This new feature allows users to tag a single topic per post in order to prevent tag spam. The concept of tags was initially piloted in Australia before being expanded for use worldwide.
In contrast to hashtags, individuals can utilize phrases with spaces and special characters when tagging their posts. Clicking on a tag within a post will display all related posts within the search view. Additionally, users have the ability to type a tag into the search bar to access posts associated with that particular tag. Instagram Head, Adam Mosseri, expressed hope that this new design would lead to a decrease in engagement manipulation.
Although the Threads app currently does not include a trending section, popular tags can be easily added when the tag button is tapped. Users are also given the option to report topics that they find offensive, with reporting categories including spam, bullying, harassment, scam or fraud, eating disorders, and hate speech and symbols. Some users reported receiving warnings about sensitive tags due to previous reports, but it remains unclear what the threshold is for the activation of a pop-up warning for sensitive tags.
There has been a reported issue with similar hashtags being populated, potentially limiting the reach of a post when multiple tags exist for the same topic. For example, multiple tags related to the NBA are currently available, including NBAThread, NBA Threads, and NBA.
Last month, Threads expanded its search feature to support “all languages” in all countries where the app is accessible, and the company is reportedly preparing to launch Threads in the EU to comply with region-specific regulations. Additionally, there has been an upturn in Threads’ daily downloads following a temporary decline over the last few months, as reported by app analytics firm Apptopia.
The updates to the Threads app are part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to enhance the user experience and address user concerns with regard to privacy, content moderation, and community standards. As social media continues to play a significant role in people’s daily lives, platforms like Threads are evolving to provide a safer, more inclusive, and engaging environment for their users.
