Threads Updates Custom Feeds Access

06/25/25
Source: Social Media Today – Latest News by Andrew Hutchinson. Read the original article

TL;DR Summary of Threads Updates Its Topic-Based Feed Navigation

Threads has introduced a new Feeds dropdown menu to simplify access to custom keyword-based streams, replacing the previous side-swiping method. This update aims to encourage more deliberate and focused engagement with topic-specific conversations. Despite these improvements, Threads’ leadership acknowledges that such features are unlikely to significantly boost overall user growth. The shift reflects broader social media trends favoring algorithm-driven content discovery over manual feed customization.

Optimixed’s Overview: Enhancing User Navigation with Threads’ Redesigned Feed Interface

Simplifying Access to Custom Feeds

Threads has revamped the way users interact with their topic-based feeds by introducing a dedicated “Feeds” dropdown menu located at the top left of the main feed. This change replaces the traditional side-swiping gesture with a more structured navigation system, allowing users to more easily find and manage their keyword-driven streams.

Encouraging Focused Engagement

The new design aims to promote more intentional exploration of conversations by making feed switching a deliberate action. Users can still reorder feeds via a pencil icon or create new ones using the plus icon, streamlining the customization process.

Context within Broader Platform Strategy

  • Custom keyword feeds were initially introduced last November to foster real-time topic discovery.
  • Despite ongoing feature additions such as lists, trending topics, and hashtags, Threads’ leadership has expressed skepticism about these features driving significant user growth.
  • The update reflects a strategic response to limited uptake of the original side-swipe navigation method.

Industry Trends Impacting User Behavior

Threads’ approach contrasts with dominant trends exemplified by platforms like TikTok, where powerful algorithms automatically curate personalized content feeds with minimal user input. This shift in user expectation has diminished the appeal of manually curated feeds, emphasizing the importance of algorithms in content discovery and engagement.

Implications for Users and Content Creators

  • Users may benefit from easier feed management, potentially enhancing their experience by focusing on preferred topics.
  • Content creators should consider optimizing posts with relevant keywords and tags to align with platform algorithms and user discovery methods.
  • Despite the new features, reliance on algorithmic curation remains a key factor in Threads’ ecosystem.