Yup. Here's the stitch, err, sitch: Last week, Meta hard launched the new app, which many are calling a Twitter dupe. Some common threads include the ability to share photos, videos, and text-based posts, which other users can like, repost, or reply to. But unlike Twitter, there's no way to order your feed chronologically. And it doesn't have DMs, hashtags, the ability to search posts, or a desktop version, at least for now. Still, in just under 48 hours, more than 70 million users flocked to the app — making it the most rapidly downloaded app ever. Which is why some are calling it a "Twitter killer."
Haven't we heard this before?
True. It's not the first app trying to rival Twitter (see: Mastodon, Bluesky). But since it's backed by Meta, Threads has access to its massive user base, including more than 2 billion active IG users worldwide, who can directly import their profile info and followers. That makes it very easy to get started — and it might explain the app's impressive momentum. (For comparison, Bluesky reportedly just hit the 1 million mark.) It might also explain why Twitter was so quick to threaten a lawsuit, accusing Meta of hiring former employees with access to its trade secrets and intellectual property — all of which Meta dismissed as "not a thing." Plus, it comes as Twitter's own turmoil continues: Ever since Musk purchased Twitter, it's been riddled with challenges, like glitches, erratic decisions (most recently, imposing limits on the number of Tweets people can read), and a reported nearly 60% drop in advertising spending.
theSkimm
While other apps have tried to replace Twitter, many former users are still looking for a place to land. Threads could be the most promising, but it'll have to overcome concerns surrounding its parent company, like data privacy and financial stability. TBD if it'll eventually leave Twitter hanging by, well, a thread.
What's Happening
📰 In news…
On Friday, the Biden admin announced it'll send controversial cluster munitions to Ukraine as part of a new military aid package. That's as President Biden prepares to head to this week's NATO summit, with Ukraine's potential membership bid likely on the agenda. Meanwhile, back in the states, two WNBA stars are starting a women's basketball league that'll provide fellow players with an alternative to going abroad during the offseason.
📈 In business…
Last month, US employers added a lower-than-expected 209,000 jobs — a sign the economy is continuing to cool. It comes as new data from the Labor Dept suggests the Great Resignation may be over. Meanwhile, ChatGPT lost users for the first time, raising questions about whether interest in AI is short-circuiting. Oh and if you still send snail mail, don't be surprised when the price of stamps is higher than usual.
🩺 In health...
According to a new study, the number of Americans dying from pregnancy-related causes has more than doubled over the last 20 years. But some help could be on the way, now that the FDA approved the first test to detect preeclampsia. Also, apparently, our bodies may stop functioning optimally once temps reach 104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Good to know as the Earth hit its hottest day ever recorded.
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Sunday Scaries, Who?
Here's one tip for a better start to your week.
If you want to craft a calmer week — and honestly, who doesn't? — consider taking matters into your own hands with an art project. Not only does making art offer a break from the screen (and scrolling), but it's also been shown to lower stress and anxiety and spark a state of flow. Plus, you don't have to be a museum-worthy artist to experience the benefits. Get started with one or more of these creative ideas...
Bracelets. Relive easy, breezy summer camp days by making your own bracelets. If you've got some embroidery floss, you could go old school with a simple spiral staircase, before working your way up to chevrons, diamonds, and diagonals. Or, for those with a bit less patience, stick to beads and charms, which are particularly trendy this summer.
Pottery. If it feels like everyone is indulging in some clay time, you're not wrong. Across the country, people are getting their hands dirty at pottery classes and workshops. Of course, you could join them — or, you could make your own vases, plant hangers, or candlestick holders right at home.
Dried flower arrangements. Sure, you could try your hand at arranging fresh flowers. Or, you could try your hand at a dried bouquet and admire your work for months, even years, to come. All you need is a variety of dried grasses and blooms (which you can buy or dry yourself), a stunning vase, and a spare hour.
Save the Date
Like ours, your work and personal calendars are probably hectic. So here are some events you should know about...
PS: Want more events like this on your cal? theSkimm App gives you a heads-up on when everything from holidays to sports games to awards shows are going down. Download it here.
News Quiz
Stumped by our news quiz yesterday? Here's the answer.
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