Meta's Threads Gains Feature Similar to X: Trending Topics Now Live in the US

Meta's text-based social media platform, Threads, continues to evolve, adding a feature reminiscent of its competitor, X (formerly known as Twitter). The new feature displays trending topics, providing users with a glimpse into the most popular discussions happening on the platform.

Threads' Journey from Limited Features to X-Inspired Updates

Threads launched in July 2023 with a focus on facilitating conversations. Initially, it offered basic functionality, but Meta gradually introduced features like following tabs, hashtags, and separate feeds for "For You" and "Following" updates. These additions mirrored functionalities already present on X.

The latest update brings yet another X-inspired feature: trending topics. This follows an announcement by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg five weeks ago, where he mentioned the platform was testing this functionality. Back then, Zuckerberg emphasized the team's commitment to refining the feature before a wider rollout.

Trending Topics Arrive in the US with a Discreet Presentation

As of now, the trending topics feature is live only in the US. It displays five trending subjects directly below the search bar. This presentation differs from X, which showcases up to 30 trending topics with a dedicated section under the explore tab on desktops.

Meta utilizes its AI systems to identify trending topics. These are chosen based on the volume of posts mentioning a particular subject and the level of engagement those posts generate. Additionally, a human review process ensures the selected topics are neither misleading nor repetitive.

How Threads Identifies Trending Topics

Meta revealed in a statement that their AI systems identify trending topics based on two factors:

• The number of posts mentioning the subject

• The engagement levels on those posts

Selected topics undergo a review process to ensure accuracy and avoid repetition.

A Discreet Approach to Trending Topics

While similar to the trending topics feature found on other platforms, Threads' implementation differs in presentation. Here's a breakdown of the key differences:

• Number of Topics: Threads displays only five trending topics.

• Placement: Trending Topics appear discreetly under the search bar in Threads.

In comparison, the other platform can list up to 30 trending topics and dedicates a section for them under the explore tab on desktops.

Threads: A Brief History

Developed in July 2023, Threads leveraged the success of Instagram, aiming to be a conversational platform for users. Initially, deleting a Threads account meant deleting your Instagram account as well. Fortunately, this limitation was lifted a few months ago.

Threads attracted a significant user base within its first week, with 100 million sign-ups reported by Zuckerberg. The platform also gained 30 million monthly active users since its launch. Briefly, it was even considered an alternative to the aforementioned platform due to its similar features.

Similarities Between Threads and Other Platforms

Threads allows users to share text-based posts up to 500 characters long, videos up to five minutes long, as well as links and photos. Similar to other platforms, users can follow creators and other users, engaging in discussions on shared interests.

It's interesting to note that when Threads launched, the other platform introduced significant changes, including rate limits and restrictions for users without accounts. This move left some users frustrated, potentially contributing to the initial user base for Threads.

Threads vs. X: Similarities and Differences

Threads and X share some key functionalities. Both platforms allow users to share text-based posts (up to 500 characters on Threads), videos (up to 5 minutes on Threads), links, and photos. Users can also follow creators and other users, fostering discussions on shared interests.

It's interesting to note that Threads' launch coincided with a period of significant changes on X. Back then, X implemented a "Rate Limit" and restricted viewing tweets without an account. This left some users frustrated, potentially leading them to explore alternative platforms like Threads.

Conclusion: Threads Embraces Trending Topics

The addition of trending topics highlights Meta's ongoing efforts to develop Threads into a more robust platform. While the feature currently operates in a limited capacity compared to X, it suggests a growing focus on keeping users engaged and informed about popular discussions within the Threads community.