Instagram Threads Rolls Out Communities for Chats on Sports, K-Pop, Books, and Beyond

Instagram Threads has rolled out a new feature called Communities, allowing users to join public spaces dedicated to specific topics such as books, K-pop, and sports. This update helps users discover relevant content and engage with like-minded people, bringing Threads closer to the model popularized by its rival, X.

What Are Instagram Threads Communities?

Communities on Threads are topic-focused public spaces where users can interact and share content related to their interests. By joining a community, members can engage with discussions, connect with other enthusiasts, and follow content tailored to the topic.

Meta explains that Threads Communities aim to let users “meaningfully connect with people who share your interests.” Currently, there are over 100 active communities, covering popular topics such as the NBA, K-pop, and book discussions.

How Communities Appear on Profiles

When a user joins a community, a label is added to their profile, visible to others on the platform. Posts from the joined community are also pinned to the user’s feed, ensuring that content from favorite communities is more easily accessible. This feature enhances engagement and visibility for shared interests.

Personalised Like Buttons for Each Community

A standout feature of Threads Communities is the custom Like button. Unlike the standard Like button in the main feed, each community uses a unique emoji as its Like button. This creates a sense of collectivity and identity among community members, making interactions more engaging and fun.

How to Join a Community on Instagram Threads

Joining a community is simple:

1. Use the search menu to find the community by name.

2. Tap the topic label on a post from the community in your feed.

3. Only topics with a three-dot label can be joined.

Users who join will immediately see the community’s content and interact with other members through discussions and posts.

Incentives for Active Community Participation

Threads is planning to reward users who actively contribute to communities. The most active posters will receive special badges, recognizing their role in establishing and sustaining popular discussion topics. This gamification encourages consistent engagement and participation in community discussions.

Testing and Current Availability

The Communities feature is currently in testing, with Meta selecting topics based on “most active interests on Threads.” The rollout highlights Meta’s focus on expanding custom feeds and interest-based engagement, which were introduced last year.

By focusing on active user interests, Threads ensures that communities are relevant, vibrant, and engaging, helping users stay connected with trends and popular topics.

Benefits of Threads Communities

Communities bring several advantages for Instagram Threads users:

• Enhanced engagement: Interact with people who share your interests.

• Custom content feed: Posts from communities are pinned to your feed.

• Unique interactions: Custom Like emojis for each community.

• Recognition: Badges for top contributors encourage active participation.

• Easy discovery: Search and join communities via labels and search menus.

This feature strengthens Threads as a platform for interest-based social networking, making it easier to follow, discuss, and engage with like-minded communities.

Conclusion

Instagram Threads Communities offer a dynamic way to connect with fans of specific topics, from sports and K-pop to books. With personalized feeds, custom Like buttons, and contributor badges, the platform aims to foster engagement and create meaningful online connections. While the feature is still being tested, it shows Meta’s commitment to enhancing user interaction and building communities around shared interests on Threads.