Instagram Threads is a new messaging app that allows you to easily connect and share casual, spontaneous moments with your closest friends on Instagram.
Unlike the main Instagram app which showcases polished photos and videos to a broad audience, Threads provides a private space to be yourself and bond with your inner circle.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn all about:
- What is Instagram Threads and how does it work?
- Key features like groups, statuses, and disappearing messages
- Recent updates like trending topics and cross-posting from Facebook
- The main benefits of using Threads
- How to get started with the app
- Tips for using Threads effectively
What is Instagram Threads?
Launched in 2019, Instagram Threads is a standalone messaging app focused on close friend communication. You can use it to message up to 15 friends at once via group chats or 1-on-1 messaging.
The app has a number of features tailored for casual, intimate conversations with your inner circle like:
- Text messaging
- Photo and video sharing
- Voice messages
- Custom emojis and statuses
The idea is that Threads provides a private digital space for you to share casual moments from your life without worrying about likes, comments or putting on a persona.
Key Features of Instagram Threads
Let’s explore some of the key features that enable spontaneous and engaging communication on Threads:
Groups
You can create custom groups with up to 15 of your closest friends on Instagram and name them whatever you like – for example, “Best Friends” or “College Crew.”
Groups make it easy to message multiple people at once without having to send things individually.
Direct Messaging
The focus of Threads is on messaging. You can send:
- Text messages
- Photos and videos
- Voice messages – just hold down the mic icon to record
You can message people individually or in your groups.
Disappearing Messages
By default, most messages sent on Threads disappear after 24 hours. This creates a pressure-free atmosphere where you can share whatever’s on your mind in the moment without worrying about clogging up your friends’ inboxes.
If you do want to keep a message, you or anyone in the chat can tap to save it before it expires.
Statuses
Let your friends know what you’re up to by setting a custom status like “At the gym” or “Feeling happy.” Statuses automatically expire after 24 hours.
Custom Emojis
Spice up your chats by creating personalized emojis out of your own photos. These work just like regular emoji and make your conversations more visual and playful.
Replying With Photos/Videos
When you get an interesting message, you can reply instantly with a photo or video instead of text. This allows you to react and engage more visually.
Sharing to Your Story
If you capture a great candid moment with your friends on Threads, you can easily share it to your main Instagram story with just a few taps.
Recent Threads Updates
Instagram is continually improving Threads by rolling out useful new features, including:
Trending Topics
See popular topics of conversation that you can discuss with your friends right in the app. Discover fun new things to bond over!
Saved Drafts
Start typing out a message but don’t have time to finish? No problem! You can now save drafts to complete later.
Saved Photos/Videos
Previously, all shared media would disappear after 24 hours. But now you have the option to save photos and videos that you want to keep.
Cross-Posting From Facebook (Testing)
Instagram is testing out the ability to cross-post Stories from Facebook over to your Threads groups. This will make moving content between platforms much smoother once launched officially.
Benefits of Using Instagram Threads
Why should you start using Threads to message your real-world friends? Here are some of the key benefits:
More Private Communication
Unlike the main Instagram app which is public, Threads is an intimate space to share things just between your closest friends.
Casual & Spontaneous
Features like disappearing messages and statuses encourage casual, in-the-moment communication without overthinking things.
Stay Connected
It’s an easy way to stay up-to-date with what your closest friends are doing and chat about your days.
Fun Way to Bond
Custom emojis, photos/video replies and small group sizes all contribute to lighthearted conversations.
How to Get Started with Threads
Ready to start connecting with your inner circle? Here is how to get set up on Threads:
- Download the Instagram Threads app from the App Store or Google Play Store
- Log in with your Instagram username and password
- Select which friends you want to add to your Close Friends list
- Create a group, name it, and add members
- Start chatting! Send messages, photos, videos and anything else to your group
Tips for Using Threads
Here are some tips to get the most out of messaging your close friends on Threads:
Add Your Closest Friends
Only add very close friends and family members that you know well and trust. Threads work best with your real-life inner circle.
Remember Messages Can Be Saved
Even though messages disappear by default, anyone in the chat can choose to save them. So don’t overshare anything too personal or sensitive.
Set Your Status
Let your friends know what you’re up to! Custom statuses spark conversation topics and keep everyone updated.
Reply Visually
Stand out from basic text messages by using photos, videos and voice messages to reply.
Have Fun!
Threads are designed for casual connections with friends. So relax, be yourself and enjoy the conversations!
The beauty of Instagram Threads is that it provides a private, intimate space to strengthen bonds with real-life friends. Give it a try and see just how much closer it brings your inner circle together!
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