Instagram Threads is developing new features that will bring its user experience in line with X (formerly Twitter) and social network Bluesky. The Meta-owned company is internally prototyping the ability to set a display name and add a cover image to profiles.
A company spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch on Tuesday that the two features are not currently available to the public. New additions were first identified by reverse engineering Alessandro PaluzziPeople often find unreleased features while they are still under development
Since Threads is integrated with Instagram, users are not able to change their display name, because the social network automatically pulls them from Instagram. If Meta gives users the ability to change their thread display name, it will give users more freedom over their identity on the platform.
If someone leaves X for a thread, they may want to keep the same username in the threads so that their X followers can easily find them in the Mater app. Today, users have no way to do this and have to change their name on Instagram to do so in threads, which is less than ideal.
This situation illustrates a downside of thread links on Instagram. However, it seems that Meta may now be ready to allow threads to operate a bit more independently. It would make sense for the platform, especially since it has found its footing with it Over 100 million daily active users and 300 million monthly active users.
According to a screenshot posted on Paluzzi's X, a user's display name will be shown on their thread profile and posts. Also, users will have the option to change their display name twice within 14 days.
Given the ability to add cover photos to profiles, this functionality will give users a new way to personalize their profiles on the platform like they would on X or Bluesky. The option will allow you to add more characters to your account and attract the attention of the audience.
As with any other internal prototype, it is unknown if the Meta plans to roll out these features.