Threads, Meta’s social network designed to rival Elon Musk’s X, has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 175 million monthly active users within a year of its launch. Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, announced this achievement, highlighting the app’s steady growth trajectory since its debut on July 5th, 2023.

Despite its impressive user base, which underscores its popularity, Threads faces challenges typical of new social networks. Meta has not disclosed daily user numbers, suggesting that while monthly users are substantial, many users may not yet be engaging with the platform regularly.

According to insights from Meta employees, much of Threads’ growth stems from its promotion within Instagram, leveraging the shared account system between the two platforms. This integration strategy remains unchanged, supporting ongoing user acquisition efforts.

Threads currently operates as a financial loss for Meta, although the company is committed to its development, envisioning potential revenue streams such as advertising, potentially starting next year. Integration into Instagram’s existing ad system could offer advertisers a brand-safe environment, aligning with Meta’s strategy to prioritize lighthearted content over political discourse.

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, has expressed optimism about Threads becoming culturally relevant and achieving widespread user adoption, emphasizing its potential beyond sheer user numbers. As Meta continues to invest in expanding Threads’ market presence, particularly in regions like Japan, the app remains poised to evolve into a significant player in the social media landscape.