Meta's Threads app rolls out first major update

In its efforts to maintain momentum, Threads, the Twitter rival app launched by Meta, has introduced its first significant batch of updates just two weeks after its initial release.

According to a post from Cameron Roth, a software engineer working on Threads, the new features include a translation button and a dedicated tab in users' activity feed, allowing them to see who has followed them.

Since its launch, Threads users have eagerly awaited updates, and the new app managed to attract over 100 million user sign-ups within a week. However, it still lacks several features that are popular on Twitter and other platforms, notably direct messaging and a robust search function.

Web traffic analysis firm Similarweb reported a dip in user engagement on Threads since its initial week. In response, Meta executives have been teasing plans to enhance the app, aiming to encourage users to continue returning to the platform.

Tuesday's updates brought additional features, such as the ability to subscribe and receive notifications from accounts that a user doesn't follow. Additionally, a new "+” button was introduced, enabling users to follow new accounts from the replies on a post. The updates also include bug fixes and various other improvements.

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram and the overseer of Threads, has also hinted at forthcoming plans for the app. These include the introduction of a desktop version, a feed solely dedicated to accounts that a user follows, and an edit button.