Meta's Threads app will soon have a new search function and be accessible through the web, according to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
Zuckerberg's announcement came in a Threads post where he mentioned that these new features are expected to roll out "in the next few weeks." He expressed optimism about the app's trajectory, highlighting its potential to become a vibrant long-term application.
"A good week for Threads. The community here is on the trajectory I expect to build a vibrant long term app. Lots of work ahead but excited about the team's pace of shipping. Search and web coming in the next few weeks," Zuckerberg wrote.
This photo illustration created in Washington, DC, on July 6, 2023, shows the logo of Threads, an Instagram app, reflected in its opening page.
Is Meta's Threads Losing Momentum?
Threads, which Meta introduced in July, gained significant attention and quickly climbed the charts. It took advantage of the challenges faced by Twitter, now rebranded as X, and growing scrutiny of its owner, Elon Musk.
However, the initial excitement around Threads has waned over the past few weeks, leading to decreased user engagement and frustration due to its limited functionality.
The creation of Meta's Threads was intended to position as a competitor to Twitter, as Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk engage in an online rivalry. Zuckerberg aimed to surpass the rebranded X Blue, capitalizing on Threads' initial success with over 30 million sign-ups during its launch.
Despite this promising start, Threads has been experiencing a decline in user engagement on a weekly basis. The most recent data from Sensor Tower and Similarweb suggests that Meta is facing challenges in maintaining its momentum.
According to the latest data, the number of daily active users on Threads plummeted by 82%, leaving approximately eight million daily users. This decline contrasts with Meta's projection of nearly 44 million users.
Sensor Tower also reported that users are spending less time on the app. While users spent an average of 19 minutes scrolling on Threads during its launch day, this has dwindled to just 2.9 minutes per day on average.
Read Also: Elon Musk vs. Mark Zuckerberg: Twitter Owner's Fight With Meta Chief Enters 'D**k' Measuring Stage
In-App Usage Drops
In-app usage also dropped significantly, with people reportedly engaging in just 2.6 sessions on Threads. Similarweb's data reinforces this trend, indicating that on July 7, Threads attracted around 49 million users.
However, this number has steadily declined, reaching over 11 million in just 22 days. These developments highlight the challenges that Threads is currently facing in maintaining user interest and engagement.
While Mark Zuckerberg's announcement of upcoming features like the search function and web accessibility demonstrates the company's commitment to improving the app, the decline in user activity raises questions about its long-term viability and ability to compete in the crowded social media landscape.
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