Threads vs Twitter: Examining Data Collection Practices and Key Differences
Nethusha R.
Certified Resume Writer, Career Coach & LinkedIn Optimization Specialist | Personal Branding Expert | Mentor | Microsoft
Introduction
Meta 's highly anticipated text-based conversation app, Threads, is set to challenge Twitter 's dominance in the microblogging sphere. As the launch date approaches, concerns over data collection practices have surfaced, with users questioning the extent to which Threads collects sensitive user information. This article explores the data collection practices of both Threads and Twitter, shedding light on the differences between the two platforms. Additionally, it highlights key features and discrepancies that set Threads apart from its established competitor.
Data Collection Discrepancy
An analysis conducted by an OSINT (Open-Source Intelligence) team reveals that Threads collects additional user-generated data compared to Twitter. Among the 25 categories of information analyzed, Threads was found to collect sensitive data such as physical addresses, health and fitness data, and other user contact information that Twitter does not gather. This significant discrepancy raises concerns among netizens, particularly regarding privacy and data protection.
Sensitive Information and User Data Collection
Threads' data collection practices, as outlined in its official listing on the Apple App Store, encompass a wide range of user data. This includes health and fitness information, financial details, contacts, browsing and search history, usage patterns, location information, identifiers, and various other forms of sensitive data. The inclusion of such sensitive information has sparked discussions about privacy implications and potential misuse of personal data.
Privacy Concerns and EU Restrictions
Given the stricter privacy regulations in European Union (EU) countries, Threads initially faced challenges with a simultaneous launch in the region. The Irish Data Protection Commission expressed reservations about Meta's new service, indicating that it may not be rolled out in the EU initially due to compliance with the Digital Markets Act, a new E.U. law that limits how the largest tech companies share data across services. Meta is waiting to obtain more specific information about the law's implementation before introducing Threads across the 27-nation bloc.
Key Differences between Threads and Twitter
Threads sets itself apart from Twitter through several unique features and functionalities. Firstly, Meta has confirmed that Threads allows users a 500-character limit for their posts, whereas unverified Twitter users are restricted to 280 characters. Verified Instagram accounts can retain their blue badge on Threads, while Twitter offers a similar feature at a cost of $8 per month, which also grants users an extended character limit of 25,000. However, Threads does not currently provide a comparable option.
Furthermore, Threads requires users to have an Instagram account in order to use the app. During profile creation, users have the option to import their bio information and followers from their existing Instagram profile. This integration with Instagram grants Threads access to the extensive user base of the popular photo-sharing platform.
In terms of video duration, Threads allows users, including unverified ones, to post videos up to 05 minutes long, surpassing Twitter's limitation of 02 minutes and 20 seconds for non-verified users.
While Twitter allows users to view trending topics and discover relevant content directly on the homepage, Threads currently relies on scrolling through the home feed for content exploration.
Unlike Twitter, Threads does not offer a draft-saving option at its initial launch, which is already available on Twitter for its users.
Starting a thread on Threads requires users to hit the enter key three times, as observed in circulating screenshots, while on Twitter, users can initiate a thread by simply clicking on the plus button.
Threads does not provide a separate tab to view other users' profile likes, a feature offered by Twitter.
In terms of content rules and account controls, Threads aligns itself with Instagram's guidelines, implementing the same rules for content and providing controls for muting and blocking accounts to ensure a safe and respectful environment.
A notable selling point for Threads is its integration of the ActivityPub social-networking protocol, which is also utilized by decentralized social-media apps like Mastodon. This integration allows users who build followings on Threads to eventually interact with a wider community beyond the confines of Instagram.
These distinct features and functionalities contribute to the unique user experiences offered by Threads and Twitter, catering to different preferences and needs within the microblogging landscape.
Conclusion
As Threads enters the arena as Twitter's formidable competitor, the contrasting data collection practices and feature disparities come to the forefront. While users eagerly anticipate the launch of Threads, privacy concerns loom, emphasizing the importance of understanding the implications of sharing personal information on social media platforms. With the rise of new alternatives and the ongoing debate surrounding data privacy, users must make informed decisions about the platforms they choose to engage with.