- Threads: The New Decentralized Microblogging Platform: Meta’s launch of Threads introduces a separate app from Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, aiming to be part of the decentralized social web. It utilizes the ActivityPub protocol, the same as Mastodon, fostering interoperability and independent user bases. ๐
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Privacy and Ads on Threads: Unlike Facebook and Mastodon, Threads keeps user data separate and does not track individuals across the web. Advertisements are limited to the server users are signed up with, and the home feed is determined by the user’s server based on their chosen followings. Users can unfollow or mute any unwanted content. ๐ซ๐
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Impact on Mastodon and Interoperability: Despite concerns about overwhelming smaller servers, Mastodon’s follow relationship system ensures that users only receive updates from those they choose to follow. While Meta’s adoption of ActivityPub raises comparisons to past platform monopolies, Mastodon’s support and brand recognition contribute to a more promising decentralized future. ๐
Supplemental Information โน๏ธ
Threads’ launch as a decentralized microblogging platform separate from Meta’s existing platforms brings forth opportunities for interoperability and independent user bases. Privacy-conscious individuals can find solace in Threads’ limited data collection and ad display, while Mastodon users may anticipate future interoperability. The adoption of ActivityPub by large platforms supports the growth of decentralized social media and encourages better service standards.
ELI5 ๐
Threads is a new app that works differently from Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. It wants to be part of a big group of apps that can talk to each other. It doesn’t track you much or show you many ads. It might work well with another app called Mastodon, and this is good news for people who want more privacy and choices on the internet.
๐ #Threads #DecentralizedSocialMedia #PrivacyMatters #Interoperability