Wait, Threads Still Exists? (Yes – and Tons of People Are Downloading It)

The social media landscape is always shifting, but one app is proving it’s not just a fleeting trend: Threads. According to the latest data from Appfigures, Threads was the most downloaded app on iOS in October 2024, a repeat of its performance from September. With over 275 million total users and growing, Threads is becoming an undeniable contender in the real-time social media space.

Threads by the Numbers

Threads’ steady climb in downloads has surprised many observers. Meta’s official reporting highlights some impressive milestones:

• 275 million users by October: That’s a significant increase fueled by consistent downloads.
• 15 million sign-ups in November: According to Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, the momentum hasn’t slowed.
• Likely surpassed 300 million users: With its current trajectory, Threads could hit even higher numbers before year’s end.

For comparison, X (formerly Twitter) boasts over 500 million monthly active users, meaning Threads is still playing catch-up. But given its pace of growth, it’s catching up faster than many expected.

Are Downloads the Same as Active Users?

Not exactly. While the download numbers are impressive, not all new users stick around. Some download Threads out of curiosity before returning to other platforms like X or Instagram. However, Threads’ ongoing growth suggests it’s carving out a space in the social media ecosystem, even if its active user count isn’t yet on par with X’s.

Competition in the Social Media Race

Threads isn’t the only app trying to capitalize on dissatisfaction with X. Bluesky, another contender, has gained traction among those looking for a Twitter alternative. However, its user base remains much smaller, with only 20 million active users. Bluesky has developed a loyal, tech-savvy niche audience, but its mainstream appeal lags far behind Threads.

Even so, Threads faces its own challenges. With X still maintaining relevance—especially given its political significance—Threads will need more than user growth to solidify its position.

Threads vs. X: The Battle for Influence

The 2024 U.S. election has put X under a microscope. Reports suggest a mass exodus of users due to Elon Musk’s involvement in President-elect Trump’s campaign. Yet, X claims record-high usage during the election, creating a mixed narrative about its current state.

Threads, meanwhile, is benefiting from X’s controversies, but questions remain about its ability to match X’s influence. X has historically been a go-to platform for breaking news, political discourse, and real-time updates. With Trump’s potential reliance on X during his second term, the app could see a resurgence, keeping it relevant for political and policy announcements.

The Road Ahead for Threads

Threads is undoubtedly growing, but it’s not yet ready to dethrone X. To become a dominant player, it must sustain user engagement, build a stronger cultural footprint, and offer unique features that set it apart from competitors.

Still, Threads’ continued rise in downloads is a positive sign for Meta’s latest social media venture. While it might not yet have the influence of X or the niche appeal of Bluesky, it’s clear that Threads is here to stay—and it’s steadily gaining ground.

For now, the real-time social media race is far from over, but Threads is making its case as a serious contender.