Meta has introduced a new "Web Intents" element to the Threads API, enabling developers to integrate Threads directly into their websites. This feature allows users to share links, add comments, and engage with Threads from third-party sites. When users click a Web Intent URL, a new window opens directing them to Threads, where they can complete actions like signing in or creating an account if not already logged in.
Threads API Features
Released last month, the Threads API offers:
- Expanded posting
- Scheduling options
- Analytics insights
These features aim to make it easier for publishers and brands to integrate Threads into their workflows, thereby increasing content flow, usage, and engagement on the app.
User Engagement and Growth
Meta reported that Threads has over 175 million monthly active users, but its growth has slowed since its initial launch. In comparison, X has 250 million daily active users. To maintain momentum and become a significant player in social media, Meta continues to add new features like Web Intents to drive engagement and usage.
Web Intents
Web intents offer a simple way for people to interact with Threads directly from websites, starting with the ability to quickly create posts and follow profiles. When clicking on a Web Intent URL, a new window opens and users are directed to Threads to complete the intended action. On mobile (iOS and Android), web intents will open the Threads app whenever it is installed. If users are not already logged in, they will have the opportunity to sign in or create a Threads account.
Post Intent
Post intents allow users to easily share content from a website directly to Threads, increasing reach, sparking conversations, and driving traffic.
URL Format:
https://www.threads.net/intent/post
Supported Parameters:
- text (Optional): The text that the post dialog should be prefilled with.
- url (Optional): The URL for an optional link attachment.
Examples:
- Only text:
https://www.threads.net/intent/post?text=Say+more+with+Threads+%E2%80%94+Instagram%27s+new+text+app - Only link attachment:
https://www.threads.net/intent/post?url=https%3A%2F%2Fabout.fb.com%2Fnews%2F2023%2F07%2Fintroducing-threads-new-app-text-sharing%2F - Text and link attachment:
https://www.threads.net/intent/post?url=https%3A%2F%2Fabout.fb.com%2Fnews%2F2023%2F07%2Fintroducing-threads-new-app-text-sharing%2F&text=Introducing+Threads%3A+A+New+Way+to+Share+With+Text
Follow Intent
Follow intents allow users to easily follow a Threads account directly from a website.
URL Format:
https://www.threads.net/intent/follow
Supported Parameters:
- username (Required): The username of the user to follow.
Example:
- The official @threads account:
https://www.threads.net/intent/follow?username=threads
By integrating these Web Intents, Meta aims to drive more engagement and usage of Threads, making it a more significant player in the social media landscape.
