Instagram Threads in 2025. Still Relevant or Already Forgotten?

When Meta launched Instagram Threads in mid-2023, it was hard to ignore the noise. Billed as the Twitter/X alternative the world needed, Threads surged past 100 million users in just a few days. Influencers jumped on. Celebrities followed. Brands started experimenting.

But two years later, it’s 2025. And a lot has changed.

So, the big question is: Is Instagram Threads still relevant today, or has it already joined the graveyard of social apps that came and went? Let’s unpack the numbers, the features, and the user sentiment to figure out whether Threads is still worth your attention.

Quick Recap: What Was Threads Supposed to Be?

Threads launched in July 2023 as Meta’s answer to the chaos unfolding on X (formerly Twitter). With Elon Musk making major changes over at X, from limiting posts to rolling out paid verification, many users were desperate for a text-first platform that felt more stable and less chaotic.

Meta saw an opening and launched Threads as an extension of Instagram. You could log in using your IG account, keep your username, and instantly follow everyone you were already connected with. Smart move.

It was designed for:

Short-form text posts
Quick replies and conversations
A friendlier, less toxic version of X

For a moment, it worked. The app exploded in popularity. But like any platform, that initial momentum didn’t guarantee long-term success.

Threads in 2025: Where It Stands Now

So, what’s the state of Threads today? As of mid-2025, the platform still exists—but the hype has definitely cooled off.

1. User Retention Was a Major Issue

The initial surge of 100M+ signups was impressive. But according to industry reports, active daily users dropped by more than 70% just weeks after launch. People checked it out, posted once or twice, then… left.

Why? Because the app felt unfinished. In its early days, Threads lacked basic features like:

A chronological feed
Hashtags
Search functionality
Direct messaging
Trending topics

That killed its momentum fast.

By now, Meta has added many of those features, but in typical Meta fashion, the updates came slowly. And by the time Threads got them, a chunk of its user base had already moved on.

2. What’s Actually Good About Threads in 2025?

Let’s not write Threads off just yet. It does have a few things going for it:

a. Integration with Instagram Is Seamless

If you’re already on Instagram, Threads is effortless to use. Your audience carries over, and you can cross-post easily. Creators don’t need to start from scratch.

b. Clean, Distraction-Free UI

Threads is minimalist by design. No clutter, no sponsored tweets (at least not aggressively), and fewer bots. For people tired of X’s chaos, it’s a calmer alternative.

c. It’s Still Text-First. In a Good Way

Instagram is still all about visuals. Threads gives creators, writers, and commentators a place to say something without needing a perfectly filtered photo. And for niche communities, writers, tech geeks, and meme makers, it works well.

3. What’s Holding Threads Back?

Despite improvements, Threads still struggles with a few key issues:

a. It Doesn’t Feel “Alive”

Compared to X or even TikTok comments, Threads still feels quiet. The algorithm is tame. Discovery is limited. And without trending topics or viral energy, it’s hard to get sucked in.

b. Limited Global Penetration

Threads did well in North America and Europe, but in regions like South Asia, Africa, or Latin America, it never really caught fire. Users in these markets stick to Instagram, TikTok, or even Facebook, depending on local trends.

c. Lack of a Clear Identity

Is it just a Twitter clone? Is it for casual updates or serious discussion? Should creators prioritize it?

Meta hasn’t answered these questions clearly. And until Threads finds its voice, it’s going to feel like a side project, not a core platform.

Is Anyone Still Using Threads in 2025?

Yes, but it depends on who you ask.

Creators and influencers still experiment on Threads, especially when they want to connect with loyal followers in a more relaxed space.
Writers and newsletter authors use it to share thoughts, link content, and build micro-communities.
Brands occasionally test campaigns here, especially those already active on Instagram.

But it’s not the cultural hub that X used to be. It’s quieter, more niche, and still very much optional.

Threads vs. the Competition in 2025

If you’re wondering whether Threads is worth your time, you’ll want to compare it to what else is out there.

🔹 Threads vs. X (Twitter)

X has more reach, more real-time conversation, and more drama.
Threads is calmer, but lacks the viral energy.
If you want discourse, go to X. If you want peace, stay on Threads.

🔹 Threads vs. Mastodon & Bluesky

Mastodon is too complicated for the average user.
Bluesky is promising, but still feels like a work in progress.
Threads wins on usability and ease, especially for IG natives.

🔹 Threads vs. Instagram & TikTok

If you’re a creator chasing reach, Reels and TikTok still dominate.
Threads doesn’t offer the same algorithmic magic or scale.
But for text-based storytelling, it’s a unique space that Instagram itself doesn’t serve.

Should You Use Threads in 2025?

Here’s the honest answer: it depends on your goals.

Use Threads if:

You enjoy posting short, thoughtful content
You want a break from toxic timelines
Your audience overlaps heavily with your Instagram following
You’re a creator, writer, or community-builder looking for depth, not just likes

Skip Threads if:

You need a big reach, fast
You thrive in high-energy, trend-driven environments
You don’t already use Instagram heavily

Final Verdict: Still Breathing, But Barely Buzzing

So, is Instagram Threads in 2025 still relevant? Technically, yes. But practically? It’s complicated.

Threads hasn’t died, but it’s not thriving either. It’s quietly existing. For some, that’s enough. For most, it’s already forgotten.

Unless Meta gives it a stronger direction, faster feature rollouts, and a real reason to engage daily, Threads will remain a digital side note. Not dead, but not necessary.