(Credit: Meta)
Threads, Meta's Twitter-like Instagram spinoff app, is exploring a new, more engaging look on web browsers that shows multiple columns of pages or feeds next to each other. Meta started testing the new layout for select web browser users on Thursday.
"If you’re in the test, you can choose to keep things simple with a single feed, or add separate columns for your favorites searches, tags, accounts, saved posts, and notifications. You can choose to have specific columns update in real time," a Meta representative tells PCMag.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg also shared a screenshot of the new look with his 4 million Threads followers Thursday, referring to the new layout feature as "pinned columns." Zuckerberg's image shows that users will be able to make their own custom columns with different categories, like "workout" or "surfing," in addition to the traditional "for you" feed curated by Threads' algorithm.
The concept will likely remind you of TweetDeck (now called X Pro) or Pinterest, which has images with rounded corners assembled in multiple vertical columns.
If you're not in Meta's testing group, Threads on a desktop web browser shows a single, Twitter-like feed down the middle with the option to click a button to swap between the "for you" and "following" feeds.
With the new look, it's possible more customization is coming to Threads. Meta says it's taking community feedback into consideration as it tests out new features.
Meta has been steadily upgrading Threads; it's added trending topics and improved its search feature. Meta's also letting its approved fact checkers review content directly.
While it's not yet clear whether the new Threads layout will stick, a tailor-made experience for desktop web users could help make Threads more appealing to those who like to switch between the app and their PC.