Table of Content
Threads is piloting a new feature that enables the sharing of long-form text on its platform, expanding beyond its traditional microblogging constraints . Meta's move signals a direct challenge to competitors like X, formerly Twitter, and offers creators advanced tools for richer content delivery.
How "Text Attachments" Work
The feature, dubbed “text attachment,” lets users embed a formatted block of text within a single post, making it easier to publish extended thoughts, stories, or news updates without relying on stitched multi-post threads or screenshot workarounds . According to app researcher Radu Oncescu, when a long-form block is attached, a preview appears as a gray box in the post; a tap on this box expands it to reveal the full content . Threads allows for bold, italic, and underlined formatting, but currently does not support embedded links or media .
Positioning Against Rivals
Threads’ strategy places it in direct competition with X’s “Articles” feature, but with a notable distinction: while X restricts long-form posts to Premium users, Threads’ offering is accessible to all users during the testing phase . If feedback is positive, Meta may consider adding multimedia support or making the feature permanent .
Impact for Creators and Users
This addition could be transformative for writers, journalists, and thought leaders, who previously turned to external platforms like Substack or resorted to screenshot-based posts to bypass character limits . The new format streamlines the distribution of in-depth articles directly on Threads, potentially elevating user engagement and content diversity .
Platform Growth and Roadmap
Threads recently surpassed 400 million monthly active users, marking rapid progress two years post-launch, though it trails X’s user base at over 600 million . This long-form content experiment joins recent platform updates such as direct messaging, fediverse integration, and new AI enhancements, reflecting Meta's wider aim to attract creators and strengthen retention .
Availability and Future Plans
Meta confirms the feature is rolling out gradually, with no firm timeline for universal access . User feedback during this test phase will guide the scope and functionality of future releases, including possible multimedia integration and expanded formatting options .
Tech-savvy audiences seeking more expressive, substantive publishing options on Threads may soon find long-form text tools become an integral part of their social communications.