Meta’s social platform Threads has launched a new set of features aimed at giving users more control over their conversations and interactions. The update — which includes reply approvals and new activity feed filters — marks another step in the company’s efforts to make Threads a safer and more engaging alternative to X (formerly Twitter).
The highlight of the update is the reply approvals feature, which lets users decide which replies appear on their posts before anyone else can see them. This allows creators and everyday users alike to host open conversations while filtering out spam, harassment, or irrelevant comments.
Previously, Threads allowed users to limit replies to people they follow, their followers, or those mentioned in a post. The new system, however, introduces a middle ground — enabling open discussions while ensuring that the original poster maintains full control over what appears beneath their content.
According to Meta, the goal is to help users “set the tone of the conversation” and maintain healthier dialogue online. The approach reflects a growing trend among social media platforms to prioritize user agency and content moderation in the face of increasing online toxicity.
Smarter Activity Feed for Better Engagement
Threads is also rolling out new Activity feed filters, allowing users to more easily manage notifications and interactions. With the update, users can now filter replies to show only responses from people they follow or those that include mentions. These options join existing filters such as Verified, Quotes, and Reposts — making it easier to track meaningful engagement amid a growing user base.
Threads’ Rapid Growth and Monetization Push
During Meta’s Q3 earnings call, the company announced that Threads has surpassed 150 million daily active users, up from 100 million in December 2024. The app also boasts over 400 million monthly active users, positioning it as one of the fastest-growing platforms in social media history.
As Threads scales, Meta is accelerating efforts to monetize its traction. Ads have now rolled out globally on the platform, and video ads are reportedly next in line.
More Features on the Horizon
Instagram head Adam Mosseri revealed that Threads is testing new algorithmic controls that allow users to customize their feed by adding or removing topics based on personal interests. The feature is part of Meta’s broader strategy to give users more transparency and influence over their recommendation systems.
A More User-Centric Social Network
With reply approvals, customizable feeds, and enhanced filters, Threads continues to evolve as a more user-controlled social platform — one that encourages open discussion without compromising civility. As competition in the social media space intensifies, Meta’s strategy appears clear: combine large-scale engagement with tools that give users the final say in how conversations unfold.
