Instagram Threads: New Features in the Works
Instagram Threads is gearing up to enhance its user experience, aiming to align more closely with platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Bluesky. The Meta-owned app is internally testing features that would allow users to set a display name and add a cover image to their profiles. Although these updates aren’t available to the public yet, they were confirmed by a Meta spokesperson to TechCrunch on Tuesday.
The news first surfaced thanks to Alessandro Paluzzi, a reverse engineer known for uncovering features still in development. Currently, Threads pulls display names directly from Instagram, limiting user customization. However, should Meta allow personalized display names on Threads, it would offer greater flexibility for users wanting to establish a unique identity on the platform.
Imagine switching from X to Threads – having the same username could ease your followers’ transition in finding you on Meta’s app. As it stands, you’d need to change your Instagram name to update it on Threads, which isn’t exactly convenient. This challenge highlights some constraints from Threads’ integration with Instagram. Yet, there seems to be a shift towards allowing more independence for Threads.
“With over 100 million daily active users and 300 million monthly active users, Threads has established itself as a significant player in the social media space.”
– Social Media Analyst
According to screenshots Paluzzi shared on X, users would see their display name on their Threads profile and posts, with the option to change it twice within 14 days. The addition of cover photos would also let users express themselves more fully, akin to personalization options available on X and Bluesky.
- Display Name Customization: More control over personal identity.
- Cover Photo Option: Enhanced profile personalization.
As exciting as these developments are, it remains unclear when or if Meta will officially launch these features. For now, we’ll have to wait and see how Threads continues to evolve.
