Threads Rollout Hashtags Worldwide Without the Hash Symbol

The social network Threads underwent a significant update this week, introducing tags (without the hash symbol) to the platform. This update allows users to associate a single topic with each post, effectively preventing tag spam.

After successfully testing the tag feature in Australia last month, Meta has initiated the global rollout of tags, according to a report by TechCrunch. Unlike hashtags, users now have the flexibility to use phrases containing spaces and special characters. Clicking on a tag within a post opens a search view featuring all posts associated with that specific tag.

For users seeking posts with a particular tag, a simple search by typing the tag into the search bar works. However, it is worth noting that some posts may not utilize tags with the specified phrase. In such cases, users can manually add hashtags to their posts in the composer.

Instagram head Adam Mosseri expressed the company's optimism that this new design will help mitigate engagement hacking. Despite the absence of a trending section in the Threads app, users tapping on the tag button may encounter popular tags available for easy addition.

Additionally, users now have the option to report a topic if it is deemed insensitive, with reporting categories encompassing spam, bullying or harassment, scam or fraud, eating disorders, hate speech, and symbols. Some users have reported receiving warnings about sensitive tags based on prior reports. However, the specific threshold for triggering the pop-up warning for sensitive tags on Threads remains unclear.

Addressing concerns raised in a previous story, there is an issue with similar hashtags populating the platform. With the limitation of one tag per post, there is a risk that posts may not reach audiences searching for alternative tags. For instance, multiple tags for the NBA, such as NBAThread, NBA Threads, and NBA, could potentially fragment the audience.

Take a look at other Thread developments here.

Threads, the Twitter alternative created by Meta, has been officially released and gained ten million sign-ups within its first seven hours, as confirmed by CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The platform has already garnered significant support from various celebrities.

If you take a peek at Threads, you'll notice that it shamelessly resembles Twitter. It's no secret that Meta is aiming to lure users away from Elon Musk's struggling platform. The site made its grand debut, poised to give Twitter a run for its money in a way that previous alternatives like Mastodon and Bluesky couldn't quite achieve.

Created by the Instagram team, this fresh app offers a platform for sharing text updates and participating in public conversations. With this app, you have the freedom to create posts up to 500 characters in length, incorporating links, photos, and videos that can be up to 5 minutes long.

Since Musk assumed control of Twitter late last year, numerous Twitter users have expressed their desire for an alternative platform. Technical glitches and frequent policy changes have prompted some prominent Twitter users to seek greener pastures elsewhere.

Meta has a distinct advantage in terms of its existing user base. With over 2 billion active Instagram users worldwide, Meta aims to attract a significant portion of them to its new app. In contrast, Twitter's active user base stands at approximately 250 million.

"It’ll take some time, but I think there should be a public conversations app with 1 billion+ people on it," Zuckerberg said in a Threads post. "Twitter has had the opportunity do this but hasn’t nailed it. Hopefully we will."

The roster of celebrity names jumping on board continues to grow. Shakira, Oprah Winfrey, Kim Kardashian, and Kourtney Kardashian, have started accounts. So has Will Smith, and Jennifer Lopez, who have all hopped on the Threads and already have tens of thousands of followers.

Thanks to the carryover of usernames and verification from Instagram, Threads can effortlessly assemble an impressive lineup of famous faces and brands. And it's not just Hollywood stars joining the party. Jack Harlow, Zayn Malik, Gordon Ramsay, Karlie Kloss, Liam Payne, Ellie Goulding, and even the Dalai Lama have been spotted logging on to the app.

Take a look at celebrity posts extending a warm welcome to the new app.

Gordon Ramsay, the culinary genius, is not just a master in the kitchen but also a pro at sarcasm. With his razor-sharp wit and quick comebacks, he knows how to dish out sarcastic remarks. Even on the new app saying "Is this where I find the lamb sauce ??"

It's interesting to see the Dalai Lama embracing the wild world of social media. It's like watching your wise old grandparent try to navigate a roller coaster ride.

Zooey Deschanel, the talented actress known for her unique charm, brings her wit not only to the big screen but also to the realm of social media. With her quick and clever sense of humor, she effortlessly drew in a laugh with her Threads post. "Falling for Threads like I'm falling off this hammock," she said.

Ellen DeGeneres enthusiastically joined in on the Threads fun, radiating happiness and embracing the inclusive spirit of the platform. "Welcome to Gay Twitter!" she wrote.

Steve Aoki is not just known for his music but also for his signature cake throwing antics. Now, on the new app, he's taking his talent for throwing jokes. His post to the app about social media manager rates going up is quite fitting.

Shaquille O'Neal, the larger-than-life basketball legend, is not only known for his impressive skills on the court but also for his playful and mischievous nature off the court. He's a true jokester who loves to bring laughter to any situation including his first post on the new app, "THE DIESEL IS HERE."