Twitter, one of the world’s largest social media platforms, is reportedly blocking links to its new rival, Meta’s Threads. The move is seen as an attempt to keep users engaged on the platform rather than move away to its rival. This article will delve into the details of this development, how it affects users and brands, and the implications for the future of social media.
The Story So Far
Reports started surfacing on Monday that Twitter was selectively blocking links to Mark Zuckerberg’s latest social networking app. Users noted that while some links worked, others noticeably did not. The move means it will be more difficult for people to track down conversations on Threads and locate users’ profiles.
Since Threads launched on July 5, the app has become the fastest-growing social media platform in history and trending regularly on Twitter. Experts believe the decision to block selected links to Threads in Twitter search results is an attempt to keep users engaged on the platform rather than move away to its rival.
Twitter owner Elon Musk has also addressed the increasingly tense rivalry between himself and Meta CEO Zuckerberg. Earlier this week, when Threads sign-ups surpassed the 100 million mark, the billionaire tweeted “Zuck is a cuck.” He then reassured his loyal army of followers that he is not remotely threatened by Zuckerberg by proposing “a literal d*ck measuring contest”. In case anyone was confused by the word “measuring,” he added an emoji of a ruler for clarification.
Twitter’s Response
Twitter is evidently taking people’s concerns extremely seriously. So much so, the platform responded to requests for comments with a poop emoji, perhaps indicating that it is now in fight or flight mode in response to Thread’s soaring popularity.
Twitter blocks unregistered users and Google Search. It seems Musk isn’t trolling his good friend Zuckerberg, he may have his finger hovering over the block button as in addition to restricting links to Threads, he also blocked unregistered users and Google Search last week. As a result, there was a 62% drop in index saturation by Google of Twitter.com.
This was another move by Twitter that may be of huge concern to marketers as it could impact reach for brands that may rely heavily on visibility in Google Search. It also means that some older tweets which may have historically always ranked well in Google Search, may see a dive in rankings and therefore reach and CTR.
Why is Twitter Blocking Links to Meta Threads?
Twitter’s decision to block selected links to Threads in Twitter search results is an attempt to keep users engaged on the platform rather than move away to its rival. This move means it will be more difficult for people to track down conversations on Threads and locate users’ profiles.
During Threads’ first two days of operation, Twitter traffic was down 5% in comparison to the same period a week earlier. It was also 11% down compared to the same period a year earlier.
Experts believe Twitter is trying to protect its position in the social media market and keep users engaged on the platform. As Threads is becoming increasingly popular, Twitter is trying to prevent users from migrating to the new platform.
How Does This Affect Users?
The decision by Twitter to block links to Threads in Twitter search results will make it more difficult for users to track down conversations and locate users’ profiles.
However, clever workarounds have been discovered, such as quoting the domain name and removing the period to bypass the block. Adding “filter:follows” and clicking Latest will show you everyone you follow who has posted links to Threads.
How Does This Affect Brands?
This move by Twitter could have a significant impact on the reach of brands that rely heavily on visibility in Google Search. Some older tweets may see a dive in rankings and therefore reach and CTR.
Marketers should be aware of the potential impact on their outreach strategy and adjust accordingly. It is essential to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in social media and adjust marketing strategies accordingly.
What Does the Future Hold?
As social media platforms continue to evolve, it is likely we will see more moves by companies to protect their position in the market. The battle between Twitter and Meta is just one example of how companies are fighting for dominance in the social media landscape.
It is essential for marketers to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and adjust their strategies accordingly. As platforms continue to evolve, it is likely we will see new opportunities for brands to engage with customers and reach new audiences.
FAQ
Q: What is Threads?
A: Threads is a social networking app launched by Meta, the company behind Facebook.
Q: Why is Twitter blocking links to Threads?
A: Twitter is blocking links to Threads to keep users engaged on the platform rather than move away to its rival.
Q: How can users work around the block on Twitter?
A: Users can quote the domain name and remove the period to bypass the block. Adding “filter:follows” and clicking Latest will show you everyone that you follow who has posted links to Threads.
Q: How does this affect brands?
A: This move by Twitter could have a significant impact on the reach of brands that rely heavily on visibility in Google Search. Some older tweets may see a dive in rankings and therefore reach and CTR.
Q: What does the future hold for social media?
A: As social media platforms continue to evolve, it is likely we will see more moves by companies to protect their position in the market. The battle between Twitter and Meta is just one example of how companies are fighting for dominance in the social media landscape.
First Reported on: Search Engine Land
