At the end of 2017, we commented on the possibility of Facebook unlink Direct from Instagram and launch it in the form of a dedicated messaging app. As we can see, the plan did not fly, but that does not mean that it was forgotten forever.
According to a publication by The verge, Facebook is developing a new messaging app called Threads which aims to promote the sharing of messages, location and images among social network users, bumping headlong with Snapchat (which also offers these features).
By offering similar functions to the built-in messenger in the main Instagram app, Threads may be visually the same as we already know, and may include options to start a conversation and share. Stories with the “best friends” of the social network.
Also similar to what is already offered by Instagram, the Threads app will be able to indicate which friends are currently online, and who is close to you.
According to The verge, the new app is being tested internally on Facebook, but some leaks from the account that Threads will be a complementary service to Instagram, meaning users may choose to use it or not.
In either case, the news can be like a double-edged sword for Facebook: if the app tastes like users, great; but if it is required to use it, the company may receive a barrage of criticism (many users don't like the idea of ​​having to switch apps simply to exchange messages with someone).
However, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said last March that he “sees private messaging as the company's future”; It is therefore quite likely that the Threads project will take shape and be part of this future.
