Threads, the microblogging platform, has embarked on testing the integration of the ActivityPub protocol. This move aims to connect Threads publications with Mastodon and other decentralized social media platforms. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, expressed that this step would offer users more interaction choices and expand content reach.
The Plan for Fediverse Connectivity
From its inception, Threads developers envisioned linking the platform to the Fediverse family of decentralized social networks. This family includes Mastodon, a microblogging platform, and Pixelfed, an open-source Instagram counterpart. Adam Mosseri, Instagram CEO, previously highlighted that decentralizing Threads would attract a new generation of bloggers.
Progress Toward Decentralization
In a step towards Fediverse integration, Threads introduced the option for users to verify their accounts through Mastodon in August. Initially, this verification wasn’t full decentralization but marked the platform’s initial step towards the Fediverse. Despite skeptics’ doubts about Meta’s commitment due to its investments in centralized projects, Zuckerberg, Mosseri, and other company leaders reiterated their unchanged plans.
Current Testing Phase
The testing program currently involves a small segment of Threads’ audience, and a complete two-way integration is not yet established. Presently, it’s impossible to post from Mastodon to Threads or transfer accounts between platforms. However, Mosseri assured users of future possibilities, such as direct Mastodon account subscriptions from Threads, notes NIX Solutions.
The ongoing testing signifies Threads’ proactive approach to adapt to the decentralized landscape while emphasizing user choice and expanded content accessibility.