Commencing today, Instagram Threads is initiating the gradual introduction of one of its most frequently demanded functionalities: the capacity to access the service through a web interface while being logged in. Initially, Threads users will be granted the ability to make posts, peruse their feeds, and engage with content from their desktop computers. However, it’s important to note that the desktop experience will not be entirely on par with the Threads mobile app at this stage.
To provide an example, certain tasks such as profile editing and transferring a thread to Instagram DMs (direct messages) won’t be accessible to web users. The latter capability was introduced more recently to entice more Instagram users to explore Threads, as the app’s user engagement had experienced a decline after generating significant buzz at launch.
The Threads development team is actively working to introduce additional features over the upcoming weeks to align the web experience more closely with the mobile app. Despite its current limitations, the availability of Threads on the web has the potential to be a transformative change for individuals who are still in the process of transitioning from other platforms like Twitter/X. Since its inception, web support has consistently ranked among the top requests from users. This demand, along with the introduction of a reverse chronological Following feed in July, demonstrates the company’s commitment to addressing user needs.
While the company had assured users that web support was in the pipeline, it hadn’t provided a specific timeline for its release. Nevertheless, there were indications that the web version was nearing completion. Just last week, Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, hinted at the progress by responding to a user’s request for desktop posting with the words “We’re close on web.” Adding to the anticipation, The Wall Street Journal leaked news on Monday that web support was set to arrive during the current week.
In the lead-up to the launch, the Instagram Threads team had been internally testing a version of the web interface for a couple of weeks, according to Mosseri. Although users could view posts and replies, they were unable to actively participate in conversations. This limitation hindered desktop users from engaging fully, likely prompting a portion of early Threads adopters to revert to using Twitter.
(Source: Sarah Perez | Tech Crunch)
