Instagram Threads, a competitor to X, has introduced a feature to simplify accessing fediverse settings via a single URL. This enhancement allows users to request others to enable fediverse sharing on their accounts more easily. Instead of explaining the process, users can now share a URL that directly opens the option to enable this feature with one click.
The feature was showcased at FediForum, an online event focused on the fediverse and related technologies like ActivityPub, the AT Protocol, and Nostr. Fediverse sharing allows Threads posts to be shared across the open social web, including platforms like Mastodon, enhancing the reach of Threads' content.
Importance of Fediverse Sharing
Fediverse sharing is not enabled by default on Threads, leading to some confusion among users about its benefits. This has resulted in users advocating for the feature in replies to popular Threads accounts. Once enabled, users can post content to both Meta's app and the open social web simultaneously, thanks to ActivityPub, a protocol established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).
Currently, Threads users can be followed by fediverse users and see their replies and likes. Threads has also added the ability to view fediverse replies on others' posts and support for content syndication through the Threads API for third-party applications. The long-term goal is to facilitate seamless communication between Threads users and the broader open social web.
The new URL, makes it easier for users to request others to enable fediverse sharing. This small but significant update reflects Meta's attention to the fediverse community's efforts to educate Threads users about the feature's potential.
