Instagram launches 'Threads' messaging app for chatting with close friends
What's the story
Instagram is not giving up on chatting, just yet. Its newest app 'Threads' is a proof of that. Threads comes as a companion messaging service for the photo-sharing platform, one that has been specifically designed for your inner circle, aka close friends, on Instagram. You can use Threads to send text/photos/videos, but the thing is, there are also some questionable capabilities in its package.
App
Threads to keep you connected with close friends
Instagram has long been providing the option to add followers into a list of 'close friends' and share stories only with them. Now, taking this a notch up, the company has launched Threads - a platform to interact with those on the close friends' list. It shows direct messages and group chats but only from close friends, not other followers.
Working
Share photos, videos instantly
The launch screen of Threads is a camera that lets you capture photos/videos (without filters) for sharing with friends. You can even add shortcuts of select friends on the bottom of the camera for instant sharing. The second screen of the service lists the direct messages of close friends, meaning there won't be too many conversations to go through in this particular section.
Status section
Then, there's the controversial part - Status
While the camera and messages sections are normal, it is the third screen that has raised privacy alarms - Status. Here, you can update what you're up to. But, the weird part is, it not just lets you type/select pre-populated statuses but also uses device information to 'auto-update' your status. Now, this is scary, even if the information is limited to close friends.
Working
How Threads auto-updates your status?
When enabled, auto-update uses the location, movement, battery level of your phone to determine a context for what you may be up to. It updates the status as you go about your life throughout the day. This means it could use your phone's motion data or precise location to show your friends that you're "On the Move" or "At a cafe".
Clarification
Instagram says it won't share precise location with friends
The working of auto-update is troubling for some users, particularly those who are aware of the Facebook's (Instagram's parent company) recent privacy scandals. However, the company says it will take explicit permission before this feature is enabled and show what device information will be used. It also adds that precise location data, like cafe's name, will not be shared with friends in any case.
Quote
Also, the location doesn't go to Instagram's servers
Instagram adds, "When Threads sends location information to our server to look up locations, it's not stored there - this information is only stored on your device for a limited time. It is also deleted if you remove Threads."