Meta Tests New Feature for Cross-Posting Between Instagram and Threads

Highlights

• Meta introduces cross-posting from Instagram to Threads in a global test.
• Feature allows sharing of Instagram posts to Threads, excluding Reels.
• Cross-posted content will convert Instagram captions and hashtags into Thread post text.
• Creator bonus program launched on Threads to encourage content sharing.

Meta has confirmed it is testing a new feature that will allow Instagram users to cross-post their updates to Threads, the company’s Twitter-like app.

This will be one more way users can share content on the platform.

Some Instagram users reported seeing a new control option earlier today to cross-post posts to Threads.

Although not many of us really wanted to see the cross-platform integration, it is undeniable that it does bring more eyeballs toward the threads app.

Cross-Posting On Instagram and Threads

Users can cross-post individual posts or turn on the feature for all their posts.

For now, though, it doesn’t have an option for Reels.

Meta told TechCrunch it’s running a global test that allows users to cross-post images from Instagram to Threads.

It’s an opt-in experience, and users can turn it off at any time.

Cross-posting also means that the Instagram caption will become the text for the Thread post, and hashtags will be converted to plain text.

The company says that as part of this “global test,” selected users will see the new toggle in their Instagram settings.

It’s not just the cross-posting test; for that purpose, Meta has also rolled out a creator bonus program on Threads, incentivizing accounts with high follower counts to post on the platform.

Last month, Threads hit 150 million monthly active users, according to Mark Zuckerberg in the Q1 2024 earnings call.

This is Meta’s attempt to get more content shared and interactions made on Threads by leveraging the user base of Instagram.

As more users are drawn to the growing app, such features may eventually set it up as a Twitter alternative.

FAQs

What is the new feature Meta is testing for Instagram and Threads?

Meta is currently testing a feature that allows Instagram users to cross-post their posts directly to Threads. This test is aimed at enhancing content sharing between the two platforms.

How does the cross-posting feature work between Instagram and Threads?

Users have the option to cross-post individual posts or enable the feature for all posts. However, the feature currently does not support Instagram Reels.

The Instagram caption and hashtags are converted into plain text for the Threads post.

Can Instagram users opt out of the cross-posting feature to Threads?

Yes, the cross-posting feature is opt-in, meaning users can choose to activate it and can turn it off at any time through their Instagram settings if they decide not to use it.

What incentives does Meta offer for using the cross-posting feature?

To encourage active participation, Meta has rolled out a creator bonus program on Threads, targeting accounts with high follower counts to increase posting activity on the platform.

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