Meta is rolling out a new feature for its social app Threads, aiming to enhance real-time engagement between users. This feature, called “activity status,” introduces a green status bubble next to a user’s profile picture, indicating when they are currently online. This update, as shared by Instagram head Adam Mosseri, is designed to make it easier for users to identify when their connections are active and available for conversation, potentially fostering more timely interactions.
A Feature Without Direct Messaging
The introduction of the online status indicator is particularly notable for Threads, which has faced criticism for its lack of real-time content focus. Unlike many social platforms that prioritize instant communication, Threads has taken a different approach. Despite the new status feature, Meta has maintained its stance against adding direct messaging (DM) capabilities to the app. In recent statements, the head of product at Threads reiterated to Business Insider that there are no plans to incorporate in-app messaging, keeping the platform distinct from apps like Instagram and Discord, which integrate similar status indicators alongside DM functionality.
Encouraging Real-Time Conversations
Though Threads users won’t have a DM feature, the activity status indicator is intended to help users connect with those who are currently active on the app. By seeing a green bubble next to a profile, users can initiate conversations with others who are likely to respond promptly. However, this approach falls short of addressing the demand for a more real-time-oriented feed, which many users have been seeking.
Challenges in Finding Active Users
One potential challenge with this new feature is the lack of a streamlined way to search for or find users who are currently online. Without a specific method to identify people with the green status bubble, users might find it difficult to fully leverage the real-time engagement opportunity that Meta aims to provide. The success of this feature may ultimately depend on how well users adapt to the new dynamic and if Meta decides to introduce additional tools to make connecting with active users easier.
Conclusion
The activity status update marks a step forward for Threads as Meta tries to enhance the app’s social dynamics. By offering a way for users to see who is online, Threads aims to encourage more immediate and engaging interactions. However, the absence of direct messaging and a more real-time feed may still limit the app’s appeal for those looking for instantaneous communication. How well this feature will resonate with users remains to be seen, but it is a clear attempt by Meta to bridge some of the gaps in Threads’ social experience.
