Meta Platforms is poised to introduce Threads, its social network, in Europe this December, according to reports from The Wall Street Journal citing insider sources. This rollout marks a pivotal step for Threads, which made its global debut in July this year. The move underscores Meta’s ambitions to compete globally with Platform X, previously known as Twitter.
Navigating Regulatory Compliance
Threads faced delays in its European launch due to stringent legislative requirements governing online services in the region. To align with European laws, Meta plans to offer users access to Threads content without mandatory account creation. Furthermore, users will have the option to delete their Threads account while retaining their associated Instagram account, a strategy designed to comply with regional regulations.
Meta’s Strategic Expansion
Meta’s decision to enter the European market signifies its commitment to complying with regional legislation while expanding its social media reach. This expansion unfolds amidst a backdrop where major advertisers, including Apple, Disney, and IBM, paused advertising campaigns on Platform X following controversial remarks made by its owner, Elon Musk, deemed anti-Semitic.
In contrast, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted Threads’ promising growth, noting the new social network has nearly 100 million monthly active users as of October, notes NIX Solutions. Zuckerberg expressed confidence in Threads’ potential, envisioning a user base that could potentially reach 1 billion individuals within a few years. This ambitious projection emphasizes Meta’s strategic approach in diversifying its social media portfolio and expanding its global footprint.