The Threads app, which is linked to Instagram, appeared in the Apple app store on Tuesday and will launch on Thursday. Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp, has launched a countdown website for the app.

Threads comes days after Twitter faced heavy criticism from users. Last week, Twitter began requiring users to log in to view posts — previously, people without Twitter profiles could view posts. It then imposed restrictions on non-paying users of the platform. Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, thousands of users have closed their accounts on the app.

Threads is said to be a place "where communities come together to discuss everything from topics that interest you today to what will be trending tomorrow."

"Whatever interests you, you can follow and connect directly with your favorite people and others who love the same things - or build a loyal following to share your ideas, opinions and creativity with the world."

The footage suggests that people will be able to use their Instagram to log into Threads and follow up with existing contacts.

The app appears to have features similar to Twitter. Threads was first launched in 2019 to compete with Snapchat. The product was later abandoned, but Meta kept the brand.