Meta has officially confirmed that Threads is currently experimenting with a new functionality designed to simplify and enrich the experience of sharing extended pieces of writing on the platform. Instead of requiring users to divide elaborate reflections, thoughtful commentary, or detailed information across multiple interconnected posts, this innovation enables them to seamlessly append a substantial block of text to a single publication. By eliminating the repetitive structure of a traditional thread composed of numerous smaller updates, the tool allows for smoother communication and offers a more coherent reading experience for audiences.
The feature, first identified by app researcher Radu Oncescu through his exploration of the iOS version of Threads, has already been showcased with accompanying screenshots. A description of the functionality within the application indicates that its objective is to empower users by enabling them to integrate longer bodies of text while also making use of creative formatting and stylistic tools. This flexibility supports diverse use cases, such as the ability to share analytical reflections, contextual explanations of current events, meaningful excerpts drawn from literary works, or even compact but informative news digests. In effect, the tool serves as a platform for more nuanced self-expression.
Its availability bears particular importance for writers, independent creators, and thought leaders seeking broader visibility for their work. Traditionally, individuals who produce long-form content have turned to standalone blogs, newsletter distributions, or external writing platforms like Substack in order to publish their comprehensive materials. Threads’ initiative could reduce reliance on those separate channels, enabling creators to maintain their audiences without having to push followers toward outside sites. Additionally, one of the practical advantages of the feature is its ability to remove the need for cumbersome workarounds that previously filled this gap. For instance, rather than resorting to cumbersome screenshots of text saved in a phone’s Notes application—which often appear clunky and are inaccessible for assistive technologies—users will soon be able to share their thoughts in a streamlined and user-friendly manner.
The feature’s design and interface were previewed by user Robert P. Nickson, who tested it publicly and shared an example of what it looks like for readers. In his demonstration, a section of long-form writing appeared embedded within a post, enclosed by a subtle gray box. Viewers could tap this box to open the content in a wider format and then scroll through it as though they were reading a compact digital article. The approach blends the accessibility of a social media post with the depth of a more traditional written medium, striking a balance between immediacy and comprehensiveness.
When viewed within the broader competitive landscape, Threads’ experiment parallels the existing efforts of rival platform X, which already permits the distribution of extensive long-form material through its feature known as “Articles.” However, there are several important distinctions to note. X currently limits these publishing tools to Premium subscribers, thereby making them exclusive to paying users. Threads, by contrast, appears to be testing its equivalent with universal access for the platform’s general audience, although Meta has indicated that potential shifts in strategy could occur as the feature matures. Another difference lies in multimedia integration: X allows not only text but also the incorporation of images and video into its long-form articles, whereas Threads is initially focusing exclusively on text-based communication. Nevertheless, because this capability remains in the testing stage, it is plausible that Meta may extend its functionalities in the future to include richer media options as well.
Meta has expressed its intention to gradually expand the feature, ensuring that broader user groups will gain access over time. This addition represents only one element of a comprehensive suite of improvements Threads has been rolling out over the past year. These developments have included the introduction of private messaging (DMs), the integration of Threads into the wider fediverse ecosystem, the ability to create personalized feeds, as well as enhancements facilitated by artificial intelligence, among other updates. Together, these changes highlight Meta’s ongoing commitment to expanding the platform’s capabilities and positioning Threads as a serious contender within the rapidly evolving social networking space.
The momentum behind the application is notable given its growth trajectory. Since its launch just two years ago, Threads has surpassed 400 million monthly active users, demonstrating remarkable adoption within a short period. For comparison, its direct competitor X continues to maintain a user base exceeding 600 million monthly active accounts, according to figures previously referenced by its former chief executive, Linda Yaccarino. While Threads still trails behind X in terms of sheer scale, its steady development of features like long-form text attachment indicates that Meta is strategically tailoring the platform to meet the diverse expectations of creators, writers, and casual users alike. In doing so, Threads is working to cultivate a distinctive identity and closer engagement within an increasingly competitive environment.
Sourse: https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/28/threads-tests-a-way-to-share-long-form-text-on-the-platform/
