Instagram's Threads Surpasses 100 Million Users in 5 Days, Outpacing ChatGPT

Instagram's new text-based app, Threads, has surpassed 100 million users in just five days, making it the fastest-growing consumer app in history. The app, which was launched on July 5, allows users to share close-up moments with their friends and family in a more private way than on Instagram's main platform.

Threads' success has outpaced that of ChatGPT, a chatbot developed by OpenAI that reached 100 million users in two months. Threads' rapid growth is likely due to its focus on privacy and simplicity. The app's main features include a disappearing-message chat, a story-like feature called "Moments," and a "People You Chat With" list that shows who you've been in contact with recently.

Threads' success is a sign of the growing demand for private and ephemeral communication platforms. In recent years, there has been a backlash against social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, which have been criticized for their data-collection practices and their role in spreading misinformation.

Threads' success also poses a challenge to Twitter, which has been struggling to grow its user base in recent years. Twitter has been trying to appeal to a younger audience, but Threads' focus on privacy and close relationships could make it a more attractive option for Gen Z users.

It remains to be seen whether Threads can sustain its growth over the long term. However, its early success is a sign that there is a demand for a new kind of social media platform that prioritizes privacy and authenticity.