Threads, the messaging app designed for close friends, is introducing a new feature called the “follows” tab. This update, however, falls short of users’ expectations for a dedicated following-only feed. Cameron Roth, the developer behind Threads, explains in a post that the new tab will be located on the app’s activity page, allowing users to view a list of individuals who have recently followed them.
Previously, Threads displayed recent followers in its “all” tab on the activity page, so the addition of the “follows” tab simply makes it more convenient to track new followers. Furthermore, two additional filters called “quotes” and “reposts” have been introduced, enabling users to organize recent activity based on who has either reposted or quoted their threads.
In addition to these changes, Threads is rolling out a translation feature to cater to users who follow individuals from different countries. Although this option may not be visible to users at the moment, Roth assures that it will be displayed alongside the like, reply, repost, and share buttons at the bottom of each post.
Among the other minor changes implemented in Threads is the ability to receive notifications from users who are not followed. This update allows for a more streamlined experience by ensuring important updates are not missed, even from non-followed accounts. Additionally, improvements to the activity feed scrolling have been made, enhancing the overall user experience. Moreover, users now have the option to follow people directly from the replies section of a post, providing more flexibility and convenience when connecting with others. It is worth noting that these changes may not be immediately visible to all users and might require restarting the app or waiting until the end of the day. Unfortunately, it remains unclear when these updates will be made available on Android devices.
Threads, a subsidiary of Instagram, was launched in 2019 as a standalone messaging app focused on fostering intimate connections between close friends. The app allows users to share photos, videos, messages, and even their location exclusively with a select group of individuals. By prioritizing privacy and restricting content to a smaller circle, Threads aims to create a more personal and genuine space for communication.
The introduction of the “follows” tab provides users with a convenient way to keep track of new followers, enhancing their experience within the app. While the feature falls short of the requested following-only feed, it demonstrates Threads’ commitment to listening to user feedback and continuously improving the platform.
The translation feature is particularly valuable for individuals who follow users from different countries. As global connections become increasingly common in the digital age, the ability to understand and engage with content in different languages is crucial. By integrating translations into the app, Threads aims to bridge language barriers and facilitate cross-cultural communication.
Threads’ decision to allow notifications from non-followed users reflects an understanding that important updates and conversations can arise from unexpected sources. While the app focuses on curated connections, it acknowledges the value of serendipitous interactions and ensures that users do not miss out on opportunities to engage with compelling content.
The enhanced scrolling experience in the activity feed contributes to a smoother and more enjoyable user interface. This update guarantees that users can effortlessly browse through their activity and stay up to date with the latest from their close-knit network.
Finally, the option to follow people directly from the replies section of a post streamlines the process of connecting with others. By eliminating the need to navigate to a separate profile, this feature makes it easier to expand one’s network and engage with interesting individuals within a specific thread.
In conclusion, Threads is introducing a new “follows” tab on its activity page, allowing users to conveniently view a list of recent followers. While it may not fulfill the request for a dedicated following-only feed, the update improves the user experience by simplifying the process of tracking new followers. The addition of translation capabilities, notifications from non-followed users, improved scrolling in the activity feed, and the option to follow individuals from the replies section of a post further enhance Threads’ functionality and user-friendliness. Although these changes may not be immediately accessible to all users, Threads continues to iterate and refine its platform to meet the evolving needs of its user base.