Even before its scheduled launch on July 6, Meta’s Instagram Threads app has found itself embroiled in controversies surrounding privacy concerns.
The app, which is believed to be a potential competitor to Elon Musk’s Twitter, briefly appeared on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, garnering attention and raising questions about its data collection practices.
According to the official listing on the Apple App Store, Instagram Threads has the capability to collect a wide range of user data, including information about contacts, browsing history, usage patterns, location, search history, identifiers, financial data, health, fitness, and other sensitive information.
This extensive data collection has sparked concerns among users and privacy advocates, with some expressing dismay that personal privacy seems to hold little meaning anymore.
Binod Kshetri, a lawyer with an interest in technology, voiced his concerns about the potential implications of such data collection on users’ privacy.
Meanwhile, tech entrepreneur Alan Alfred also weighed in on the controversy through a tweet.
The app’s listing on the App Store indicates that Threads will function similarly to Twitter, allowing users to post text-based updates that can be liked, commented on, and shared.
Additionally, those who follow Instagram accounts will be able to continue following them on the Threads app, retaining the same username.
Instagram has been generating buzz around its upcoming app for months, employing celebrity endorsements and influencer marketing to create anticipation in the market.
Despite the pre-order availability on the App Store, the actual launch date remains set for July 6.
As the controversy looms, users and privacy advocates will likely keep a close eye on how Meta addresses the privacy concerns related to Instagram Threads.
