Threads working on 'interests' feature to connect users with discussions
What's the story
Threads has started testing a new feature that allows users to add their interests to their profiles.
This addition aims not only to show profile visitors the topics a user might post about but also to guide them toward active conversations on those subjects.
The company believes this will simplify the process of finding discussions across its platform, particularly for those unfamiliar with which people to follow on specific topics like technology or sports.
User connection
Enhancing user experience and engagement
The 'interests' feature could make Threads more appealing to newcomers who want to quickly get connected with others discussing their favorite subjects.
This is part of a wider strategy by Meta, which also includes the recent addition of custom feeds.
These permit Threads users to easily build feeds around specific topics or those including certain user profiles and share them with others, thereby improving overall user experience and engagement on the platform.
Feature confirmation
Meta confirms testing of new feature
A Meta spokesperson told TechCrunch that the 'interests' feature is currently in testing, noting that it's mobile only for the time being.
More details about this development are expected to be released soon.
An example of the feature was posted to Threads by user @faslu_35, showing where on user profiles the interests would be present and how users would later be able to edit their list of interests from a separate screen.
Competition
Threads competes with Bluesky
Features like 'interests' and custom feeds are methods Threads is using to challenge Bluesky, a social networking start-up that has grown to over 32.8 million users.
This is thanks to its promises of decentralization and custom tools for managing your own feeds, algorithms, and moderation.
This competition highlights the growing trend of platforms offering personalized user experiences based on preferences.