Threads Allows Users to Finally Disconnect Without Losing Instagram

In an announcement made by Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, users of the app Threads will soon have the option to sever ties without losing their Instagram accounts. This development comes as a response to feedback from the Threads community, particularly those who signed up during the app’s initial surge but did not become regular users.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, launched Threads in July as a potential rival to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Initially, Threads became the fastest-downloaded app in history, but its popularity dwindled over time. Users expressed dissatisfaction with the app, citing fewer features compared to other platforms aspiring to be the next Twitter. Issues included the absence of topic tags, direct messaging, and accessibility from a desktop—a problem that Threads has since addressed by introducing a web version.

One significant concern that emerged was the inability of users to delete their Threads account without also losing their Instagram account. Many long-time Instagram users, who had meticulously curated their profiles over the years, found this to be a major drawback.

Instagram acknowledged the problem early on and committed to finding a solution. However, it was only on Monday night that Adam Mosseri officially announced the upcoming update, emphasizing that it was a response to the feedback from the Threads community.

This deletion dilemma also ties into the broader issue of Meta’s approach to data collection and privacy. In May, Meta faced a record $1.3 billion fine and an order to halt the transfer of data collected from Facebook users in Europe to the United States. The launch of Threads in Europe was delayed, partly due to the stringent data rules in the region, as noted in an interview with Mr. Mosseri.

The Information Commissioner’s Office in Britain, a privacy watchdog, expressed its stance on the matter, stating that it had communicated clearly with Meta about the need for users not to sacrifice one service to disconnect from another.

With Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter last year, users dissatisfied with certain changes on the platform have been exploring alternatives. However, no clear contender has emerged, though platforms like Mastodon, Bluesky, and, notably, Threads, continue to vie for user favor.

In addition to the deletion feature, Adam Mosseri announced another update: Threads posts will now be visible on Meta’s other platforms, Facebook and Instagram. However, he dismissed speculation about the addition of direct messaging, a feature common in social media apps like Instagram and Twitter.

“We’re not building DMs into Threads,” clarified Mosseri, addressing the anticipation surrounding additional functionalities in the app.

As the update rolls out, Threads aims to address user concerns, providing more flexibility and autonomy for those looking to disengage from the app without compromising their Instagram experience.