Meta launches 'Threads', a rival to Twitter... Will Zuckerberg's gamble pay off?

Available for Free Download in Over 100 Countries
Text-Based SNS with 500 Characters Similar to Twitter

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, officially launched a new social networking service (SNS) called 'Threads' on the 5th (local time). Threads is expected to grow rapidly based on Instagram's user base and is regarded as the only real competitor to Twitter in the SNS market.

The launch is a strategic move by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who recently engaged in a 'martial arts showdown' debate, aiming to challenge Twitter led by Elon Musk. Attention is focused on the outcome of this business showdown between the two CEOs in the SNS market.

The appearance of Threads launched by Meta on the 5th (local time) (Photo by Meta Official Blog)

According to Bloomberg and other sources, Meta announced on its blog that Threads is now available for free download in over 100 countries through the Apple App Store and Google Play online stores. Like Twitter, it is a text-based SNS where users can write posts up to 500 characters and also upload videos up to 5 minutes long.

The strength of Threads lies in the ability to log in using an Instagram account. Instagram has 2 billion monthly active users. If Meta can carry over Instagram's user base, its new service is expected to have enough power to seriously threaten Twitter.

Meta explained, "Instagram is a place for communication through photos and videos," adding, "We want to expand what Instagram does well (communication) into text, creating a positive and creative space to express ideas on Threads." Meta is also promoting the integration with Instagram by allowing followers and other connections to be linked directly to Threads.

Shortly after the launch, CEO Zuckerberg posted on his Threads page, "Let's try this out. Welcome to Threads." He also wrote, "There is a need for an application where over a billion people can have public conversations. Twitter had that opportunity but failed to deliver," adding, "We hope to become that."

It is reported that since January, Meta has been developing Threads as an alternative app for users frustrated with Twitter, which was acquired by CEO Musk and advocates freedom of expression.

The appearance of Threads launched by Meta on the 5th (local time) (Photo by Meta Official Blog)

In fact, Threads is very similar to Twitter in terms of service format. From writing short posts to liking with heart icons and commenting, the features are alike.

The launch of Threads comes at a time when CEO Musk recently imposed restrictions on reading posts on Twitter. Since acquiring Twitter in October last year, Musk has accelerated monetization policies and introduced various restrictions, raising barriers for users. Meta’s free, similar service may attract a large number of users to switch, which is being closely watched.

Other SNS platforms have tried to attract Twitter users and expand their bases. Examples include Mastodon, regarded as an open and decentralized platform; Bluesky, supported by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey; and Truth Social, launched by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, none have fully replaced Twitter.

Meanwhile, the news of Threads’ launch also sparked a verbal exchange between CEOs Musk and Zuckerberg.

On the 21st of last month, when a Twitter user asked, "Will Threads be a rival to Twitter?" Musk sarcastically replied, "I'm scared to death." When another user warned, "Be careful, Zuckerberg practices jiu-jitsu," Musk responded, "I'm ready for a cage fight." Hearing this, Zuckerberg told Instagram followers to decide on a place for a showdown, to which Musk replied, "Las Vegas Octagon," sparking the exchange.

Following the verbal duel between the two billionaires, global attention has turned to whether the martial arts match will become a reality. Recently, reports emerged that Dana White, UFC president, is quietly negotiating to arrange a fight between them.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.