In a bid to enhance user interaction, Meta’s social media platform Threads has announced the rollout of an “activity status” feature, which will allow users to see when their friends are online. Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, unveiled the feature in a recent post, suggesting that it could foster real-time engagement among users. While the idea of increasing interaction sounds appealing on the surface, a closer examination reveals a more complex picture—one that raises significant concerns about user privacy and the nature of social media engagement.
The introduction of the activity status feature appears to be a strategic move by Threads to compete with X (formerly Twitter), which has long been regarded as a hub for real-time conversations surrounding live events. With Threads falling short in providing timely reactions and updates, this feature aims to cultivate a sense of immediacy within the app. Mosseri has highlighted the belief that seeing when friends are online may lead to increased conversations—potentially addressing the platform’s existing limitations, as Threads currently lacks a direct messaging feature. Unfortunately, this well-intentioned approach may not resonate with all users.
One of the most significant drawbacks of the activity status feature is the inherent privacy risks it introduces. Activity indicators typically belong to messaging platforms like Facebook Messenger or Discord, which are designed for private interactions. The introduction of such a feature on a more public forum could expose users to unwanted attention, particularly for those who face harassment. Users may now find themselves in a vulnerable position, as malicious actors could monitor their online activity. This concern was echoed in user responses following the announcement, with some expressing that the risks outweigh the potential benefits.
Interestingly, while Threads seeks to encourage engagement through an online status indicator, many users are calling for an entirely different feature: direct messaging. The existing lack of such a function makes the activity status seem somewhat irrelevant, as it does not facilitate any direct interaction between users. A significant number of users have voiced their preference for messaging capabilities, which would empower them to initiate conversations rather than merely signaling their availability. The disconnect between the users’ desires and the platform’s offerings can lead to frustration and ultimately affect the app’s retention rates.
The initial response to the rollout of activity status has been a mixed bag. While some users appreciate the potential for enhanced engagement, many users are skeptical or downright opposed, questioning the utility of an online status without an accompanying messaging feature. The lack of comprehensive guidance on how to manage the setting only adds to the confusion, leaving users to navigate through obscure settings to protect their privacy. Although Threads is attempting to carve out a unique niche, it seems all too aware that adopting features from other platforms isn’t always the right approach.
The introduction of the activity status feature brings both opportunities for increased engagement and significant risks related to user privacy. If Threads aims to succeed in an increasingly competitive social media landscape, it must carefully consider the needs and concerns of its users, focusing not just on flashy features, but on fostering genuine and safe interactions.