Meta has announced a series of updates for its Twitter-like platform, Threads, aiming to drive engagement and improve content discovery. The new features include the ability to add topics of interest to user profiles, updated topic tagging for posts, improved reply controls, and an enhanced video UI.
Topic Tags Now Available on Profiles
Users can now highlight their interests directly on their profiles through customizable topic tags. These tags, displayed below the bio, indicate what a user is most likely to post about.
This update could address a major challenge for Threads—building user connections. Unlike traditional social media platforms where users actively follow profiles, many now rely on recommendation algorithms to surface content. That shift has made it harder for creators to grow their audiences, leading to frustration over stagnant follower counts.
By introducing topic tags, Threads hopes to make profiles more engaging and easier to follow. When someone visits a profile and sees shared interests, they may be more inclined to hit the follow button. Additionally, tapping on a topic tag will direct users to discussions related to that subject, offering a seamless way to explore relevant content.
Topic Tagging in Posts Gets a Boost
Beyond profiles, Threads is also enhancing topic tagging within posts. The platform is introducing prompts that suggest trending topics or topics related to previous user activity. This change is designed to encourage more meaningful discussions and spark engagement across the app.
According to internal data from Meta, posts with tagged topics receive more views compared to those without. This suggests that properly tagging a post can improve visibility and reach, making it a valuable tool for users looking to expand their audience.
New Controls for Replies
Meta is also giving users more control over how people interact with their posts. The latest update includes refined reply controls, allowing users to set specific parameters for who can respond. These options are expected to give users a greater sense of control over their conversations while reducing unwanted interactions.
Additionally, Threads is continuing to adjust its algorithm to prioritize content from followed accounts. This change aims to balance the app’s discovery features with a more traditional feed experience, ensuring that users don’t feel disconnected from the profiles they choose to follow.
Enhanced Video UI for a Better Viewing Experience
Threads is tweaking its video interface to offer a smoother, more engaging experience. The update includes:
- Improved playback controls for easier navigation
- Better video recommendations based on user interactions
- Enhanced full-screen mode for an immersive experience
With video content continuing to dominate social platforms, these refinements could help Threads compete more effectively with rivals offering similar media experiences.
The Bigger Picture
Meta’s updates to Threads reflect a broader effort to make the platform more user-friendly while also keeping up with evolving social media habits. With competition from X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky, and other emerging platforms, Threads needs features that both attract new users and retain existing ones.
By focusing on better content discovery, stronger creator tools, and refined user controls, Meta hopes to position Threads as a must-visit destination for real-time discussions and trending conversations.
