Instagram's highly anticipated rival to Twitter has made its debut on the iOS App Store in the United States. The new app, called Threads, is set to launch on July 6, according to information from the App Store.

This timing works in favour of Instagram, especially after Twitter's recent rate-limit errors, which led to the growth of competing platforms like Spill, Bluesky, and Post. However, Threads may have an advantage as it seamlessly integrates with users' existing Instagram followers and following lists. Instead of starting from scratch, Threads users will have their established Instagram communities readily available.

The App Store description of Threads positions it as a platform where communities can gather to discuss a wide range of topics. Users can follow and connect with their favourite creators and like-minded individuals, or build their own loyal following to share their ideas, opinions, and creativity.

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Although Threads is closely linked with Instagram, it will function as a standalone app. While the available information from the App Store listing is limited, it suggests that users can engage with posts through actions such as liking, commenting, reposting, and sharing. The app screenshots also reveal a feature that allows users to customize who can reply to their posts: everyone, people they follow, or only those mentioned in the post.

The introduction of Threads does not come as a complete surprise, as details have been gradually emerging over the past few months. Instagram referred to Threads as "decentralized," according to an Instagram spokesperson quoted by Money Control. Leaked slides from a briefing with top creators also indicated that Threads would be compatible with Mastodon, a decentralized network based on ActivityPub. However, the compatibility of a centralized app like Instagram with a decentralized network raises questions that remain to be answered.

While Meta's previous side apps have not always been successful, Threads arrives at a crucial moment to take advantage of Twitter's ongoing mishaps. Ultimately, it will be up to consumers to decide whether they are willing to let Meta dominate yet another aspect of their social media experience.