Threads has made a significant but cautious move toward integrating with the fediverse by allowing users to follow accounts from decentralized platforms like Mastodon.
However, some limitations prevent it from being fully immersed in the federated network just yet.
Whatโs New
- Users can now follow fediverse accounts on Threads, but these accounts cannot be searched directly. You can only follow them if theyโve interacted with Threads content, such as liking, following, or replying to posts.
- Fediverse posts will not appear in your Threads feed, though users can receive notifications when these accounts publish new content.
- Threads will also start linkifying fediverse usernames, allowing easier navigation between platforms.
Instagram head Adam Mosseri confirmed that these profiles and posts are visible on Threads, marking a baby step toward full integration.
Threads developer Peter Cottle elaborated that your account must be federated, and the fediverse account should be eligible to follow.
Future Plans
Metaโs Seine Kim explained that the goal is to grow the fediverse responsibly while maintaining a safe, diverse, and interoperable community. Although this is just a step toward broader integration, it reflects Threads’ aim to become fully interoperable with the fediverse.
As competition heats up, with platforms like Bluesky garnering attention, Threads has started rolling out these features at a faster pace, signaling Meta’s increased focus on interoperability.
