Meta’s microblogging platform Threads is expanding its communities function. It now supports more than 200 communities, up from just over 100 (per Newsroom post). The growing number of communities cover a wider range of interests, from general topics like books and K-pop to specific topics of conversation like favorite sports teams.
In addition, Meta is also testing engagement features within the expanded communities. Highly engaged contributors receive a “Champion” badge on their profile, meaning they keep the conversation active and are frequently followed on the platform. Meanwhile, users can set customizable interest labels that work like tag labels under usernames.
Threads is based on identity-oriented discussions
Both features create a sense of personal identity among colleagues within the app and signal a move away from the chronological or algorithmic feed. Additionally, they give users a reason to stay and contribute (beyond just posting to their feed), thereby increasing engagement on the platform. However, they are currently in the testing phase and therefore not everyone has access to them.
If you use Threads regularly, expanding the Communities feature and adding badges and labels could change the way you use the app. While Community Spaces make it easier to find targeted conversations instead of endless scrolling, badges help high-quality contributors stand out and flair adds context.
For creators and influencers using Threads, the updates provide another path to greater visibility beyond follower counts, allowing them to be more active where their audience already lives. The update also signals an investment in real discussions rather than algorithmic recommendations.
Meta has also hinted that it will introduce similar features for Threads in the near future, including ranking tools within communities and ways to ensure the most relevant post appears at the top of users’ feeds. We could also see threads move deeper into moderation tools, leaderboards or reputation systems.
Ultimately, Theads is on its way to encouraging topic-based discussions, a technique that has proven to be very effective for platforms like Reddit. Most recently, Meta also announced new features for its Edits app as well as a “Your Algorithm” feature for Instagram users. While the former helps users or creators create content more easily, the latter allows them to fine-tune their feed.
