Threads Launches Starter Packs Inspired by Bluesky

Threads Introduces Profile Collections Inspired by Bluesky’s Starter Packs

Meta’s Threads platform is implementing a feature mirroring Bluesky’s “Starter Packs.” These are essentially curated lists of accounts recommended to new users, designed to facilitate connections and build a following.

New User Onboarding and Discovery

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, announced on Thursday that Threads is currently testing a system for users to discover and readily follow collections of profiles. These profiles will focus on trending and popular subjects within the Threads community.

This launch follows a report from TechCrunch two weeks prior, detailing Threads’ development of this functionality.

Where You’ll Find These Collections

New users will encounter these suggested profile collections during the signup process. They will also be integrated into the app’s “For You” feed, enhancing content discovery.

The collections will cover a diverse range of topics, including areas like pop culture and recipes.

Responding to Competition

Currently, Threads assists new users in finding accounts to follow by leveraging existing connections from Instagram. However, the growing popularity of Starter Packs on Bluesky likely prompted this development.

Starter Packs offer an immediate pathway to community engagement, allowing users to quickly connect with like-minded individuals. (TechCrunch’s own Starter Pack is available here.)

Threads' Rapid Development

Meta is actively updating Threads, particularly as users migrate from X to Bluesky. Bluesky has recently exceeded 20 million users and is approaching 25 million.

Recent Updates to the Platform

Threads has recently introduced custom feeds, enabling users to curate content streams based on specific interests or profiles.

Furthermore, the platform is testing the option to designate a preferred default feed – either “For You,” “Following,” or a custom feed.

Addressing User Feedback

Changes have also been implemented to prioritize content from followed accounts within the “For You” algorithmic feed. This adjustment responds to user feedback requesting less content from unfamiliar sources.

Competition with Bluesky

The social network is actively incorporating user feedback to enhance functionality. This is likely a strategic effort to retain users and prevent further migration to Bluesky, which is steadily gaining ground in terms of daily active users.

Bluesky experienced a significant user surge following the U.S. presidential election. This was influenced by perceived shifts in X’s political leaning and its use by Elon Musk to support President-elect Donald Trump.