Introduction

Like Meta’s Twitter, the Threads app has started building buzz ahead of its launch. As curious netizens saw a placeholder listing for the app on Apple’s App Store, they also noticed detailed information about the user data it collects and tracks.

Data Collection: A Norm for Meta-Owned Apps

It might be a jarring reminder, but the collection of user data is normal for Meta-owned apps. Meta monetizes these apps by selling targeted ads and personalized marketing. Notably, Facebook and Instagram iOS apps list even more categories of data than Threads. The Messenger app and even the secure messaging app WhatsApp reveal multiple categories of data linked to users’ identities.

• Meta-owned apps collect and link user data for targeted advertising
• Facebook and Instagram iOS apps list more categories of data than Threads
• Messenger and WhatsApp also collect substantial categories of user data

For individuals concerned about data privacy and the deteriorating platform of Twitter, Threads offers an alternative that is owned by Meta. Its predictability and relative stability may appeal to those who want to protect their data while using a social networking platform.

Early Success of Threads

Threads, which is directly linked to users’ Instagram accounts, gained significant traction upon its release. CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the app had 10 million signups in its first seven hours. This success implies that users are willing to embrace Meta-owned alternatives to Twitter.

Among the reasons for Threads’ popularity is the opportunity to use the app without registering on the platform. Meta plans to make Threads interoperable with non-Meta social networks that support a decentralized protocol used by WordPress and Mastodon. This means that Threads users can view and interact with content from other platforms and services that support the ActivityPub standard.

• Threads gained 10 million signups in its first seven hours
• Threads offers interoperability with other non-Meta social networks
• Users can view and interact with Threads content from other platforms supporting ActivityPub

While Meta’s history with fulfilling promises raises doubts, the addition of decentralization and ActivityPub support in Threads aligns with the company’s vision. Meta’s plan to support ActivityPub in Threads was outlined in its supplemental privacy policy, indicating its commitment to privacy and interoperability.

Choosing Alternatives and the Rise of ActivityPub

Choosing not to join Threads can be seen as a way to challenge Meta’s data-gobbling ways. Users have the option to use Mastodon or another ActivityPub platform until Threads becomes available or explore decentralized portable social networks like Bluesky.

According to Mastodon CEO Eugen Rochko, the fact that big platforms are embracing ActivityPub validates the move towards decentralized social networks. It also provides users stuck on these platforms an opportunity to switch to better providers, creating pressure on existing platforms to offer better and less exploitative services.

• Choosing alternatives like Mastodon or Bluesky challenges Meta’s approach to data collection
• The embrace of ActivityPub by big platforms validates decentralized social networks
• Switching to better providers creates pressure on platforms to improve services

With ActivityPub’s growing popularity and Meta’s expanding reach, the future of social networking platforms might see more focus on privacy, interoperability, and user empowerment.

Summary

Threads app, a Meta-owned competitor to Twitter, has already gained substantial interest ahead of its launch. While Meta-owned apps are known for collecting extensive user data, Threads is aiming to provide users with a more predictable and stable alternative. The app’s early success, with 10 million signups in its first seven hours, showcases the demand for such platforms.

Moreover, Threads offers the unique feature of interoperability with other non-Meta social networks through the ActivityPub standard. This allows users to access Threads content from various platforms, enhancing decentralization and privacy.

Choosing not to join Threads and exploring alternatives like Mastodon or Bluesky is seen as a way to challenge Meta’s data collection practices. This trend is encouraging big platforms to embrace ActivityPub and move towards decentralization, ultimately providing users with better and less exploitative services.

The rise of ActivityPub suggests a future where social networking platforms prioritize privacy, interoperability, and user empowerment. With Meta’s vision and continued efforts, Threads might just be the beginning of a new era in social networking.