The iOS update for Threads brings improvements and addresses user requests, but some essential features are still missing.
Threads, the text-first social network from Meta, made its debut earlier this month as a potential rival to Twitter. While it is still in its early stages, Threads has released its second iOS update, aiming to enhance user experience and address some user requests. However, the update falls short in delivering certain essential features that users have been eagerly awaiting.
Translation Feature Added, But EU Support Remains Absent
One significant addition in the latest iOS update for Threads is the inclusion of a translation feature. As Threads is available in various countries across the globe, the ability to translate posts in foreign languages is invaluable for an international social platform. Unfortunately, due to ongoing regulatory battles over ad business restrictions in the EU, Meta has not yet extended support for Threads in this region. Users hope that once the EU situation is resolved, translations will become available for a more inclusive user experience. However, it’s worth noting that translations on Instagram, owned by Meta, have been known to be less accurate in some languages.
Introducing the “Follows Tab” on the Activity Feed
The update also introduces a new feature called the “follows tab” on the activity feed. While it may sound exciting, the functionality of this tab is somewhat limited. It primarily allows users to view the latest followers of their Threads account. Although it may not be the most groundbreaking addition, it provides users with a quick and convenient way to keep track of their new followers.
Under-the-Hood Improvements and Additional Features
In addition to the translation feature and the follows tab, the latest Threads update includes several under-the-hood improvements and additional features. The activity feed receives enhancements, making it smoother and more responsive. The update also introduces “tappable reposter labels,” allowing users to easily identify and interact with reposted content. Furthermore, users now have the option to subscribe to unfollowed users, expanding their content discovery possibilities. Additionally, users can open a list of Instagram followers for any given user, facilitating better connectivity between Threads and Instagram.
However, users may experience a delay in seeing these changes after updating the app. They may need to restart the app or wait until the end of the day for the updates to become visible.
Persistent Lacking Accessibility Features and Algorithmic Concerns
The user-friendly interface and clean design of Threads have been commended, yet it still lacks key accessibility features. The lack of alt text, which enables editable image captions, has been lamented by users. This accessibility criterion has already been adopted by rival platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky, becoming a common expectation among users.
Another aspect that has drawn criticism is the algorithm-driven content on Threads. Users have been voicing their desire for a feed that exclusively displays content from the people they follow. Currently, the algorithm tends to prioritize brand-heavy posts, leaving some users unsatisfied. While Instagram’s Adam Mosseri has indicated that a follows-only feed is in the works, users remain cautious, considering Meta’s historical emphasis on ad-driven algorithms.
As Threads continues to navigate the competitive landscape of social networking platforms, Meta aims to address user feedback and refine the app’s features. Users eagerly anticipate future updates that prioritize accessibility, personalization, and a more engaging content experience. While the current update brings notable additions, the journey toward a comprehensive and user-centric Threads experience is still ongoing.
