Instagram launches Threads as AIM-like messenger app for Close Friends

October 3, 2019

Instagram is launching a new messaging app—Threads today. Instagram Threads is a simpler way to communicate with close friends.

The app has some key features that separate it from vanilla Instagram that we’ll discuss below.

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Instagram Threads is “a new camera-first messaging app that helps you stay connected to your close friends.” says Robby Stein, Director of Product for Instagram in a blog post.

“For your smaller circle of friends, we saw the need to stay more connected throughout the day, so you can communicate what you’re doing and how you’re feeling through photos and videos,” Stein continued.

The interface is shown below.

Users have the ability to select their close friends, or, import their list from Instagram if they have set one already. Threads then allows users to quickly share photos, videos, and stories with just a tap and a swipe in most cases.

The ability to set a status may be the craziest, or the newest feature implemented. Unless you count Augmented Reality. Similar to the days of AOL Instant Messenger, users can set a premade or customized status to update close friends on what they’re doing. This could be anything from studying to grabbing drinks.

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It gets a bit strange if you select Auto-Status. This features users your coordinates to attempt to guess what it is you’re doing and update your status accordingly. For safety reasons, Instagram Threads does not share your exact location though, which we appreciate. But just imagine, you’re on a diet and tell all your friends. Then, while you’re enjoying your healthy meal, Instagram shares your status to “chowing down donuts” at the location next to you. This could ruin entire social statuses.

The inbox portion of Threads works exactly like Instagram’s current direct messaging system, except only close friends are shown. Users can customize shortcuts to make the messaging lighting fast. Plus, no moment will be missed with the camera being the default screen upon opening the app.

Will you be using Instagram Threads? What will your status be? Let us know below.