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Instagram Threads is set to introduce a new feature called Trends, as confirmed by Instagram head Adam Mosseri in response to a user's inquiry. Mosseri mentioned, "We are working on surfacing trends," indicating that the feature is in development. This addition aims to enhance Threads' competitiveness by offering real-time news and information, similar to features found on other platforms like Twitter.
Previously, Threads faced criticism for its "For You" algorithm, which some users felt prioritized posts from creators they didn't follow or care about. Additionally, the app was criticized for showing older posts, creating a stagnant user experience. Complaints about recommending low-quality content were also raised, prompting the company to address these issues. The introduction of a Trends feature could address some algorithmic faults by highlighting popular topics and discussions, providing users with a new way to discover engaging and relevant conversations.
Reports about Threads working on Trends surfaced in October, revealing a feature that included a list of trending topics along with the number of active discussions for each item. Unlike some existing trends features, Threads' leaked version did not appear to include other trending lists by specific topics (e.g., News, Sports, Entertainment) or personalized trends for individual users. Instead, it presented a simple list of ongoing discussions, such as the release of "Loki" Season 2 on Disney+ or Billboard's Latin Music Week.
While users have expressed a demand for Trends on Threads, the feature could present challenges, especially if algorithmically curated. Algorithmic curation might be susceptible to manipulation by bad actors, leading to the viral spread of inappropriate or toxic content. With Threads managed by a relatively small team compared to Meta's overall size, the introduction of Trends adds complexity and potential risks to the app. Mosseri did not provide a specific launch date for the Trends feature, but a screenshot from reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi showed a version renamed "Today's Topics," indicating ongoing development. The final look and functionality of Trends on Threads remain unclear until its public release.
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| Instagram Threads is set to introduce a new feature called Trends |