Instagram direct messaging has increased in usage overall over the past few years, and with the platform semi-regularly rolling out sister apps like IGTV or Layouts, it’s perhaps no surprise they’re developing a new standalone messaging app.
According to The Verge, this new app called “Threads” will focus on creating more regular conversations between smaller groups of people, with a big emphasis on sharing content.
Think like Snapchat (again, copy-cats), but with more functionality.
Threads, a new messaging app from Instagram
Some of the sharing options, however, may be more concerning to some users, actually sharing automatic updates about what you’re doing like being “on the move” and between locations. Many users are deeply concerned over privacy issues right now, and automatic location sharing even with groups of friends you choose feels like a bit much.
It will be interesting to see what exactly happens with this app, because so far what we know about it seems to be working against Instagram’s favor instead of for it.
We’ll also need to see exactly how it fits into Instagram’s framework and usage, especially since Direct messaging is going to be folded into the three-platform integration of Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp that’s likely rolling out later this year or early next year.
