By Julian Castillo
Mar 28, 2024, 1:44 PM EDT
A move by Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, has perplexed many in the technology world. The latest Threads updatethe app that resembles what Twitter used to be before its rebranding as X, has introduced a feature that seems to have been taken directly from Elon Musk’s creative arsenal.
The feature in question allows users Swipe horizontally to interact with posts, either responding or indicating disinterest. This sliding mechanic, which activates different functions depending on its direction, is very reminiscent of the gesture control used in mobile operating systems such as Android and iOS to navigate interfaces.
The intriguing thing about this implementation is that Elon Musk, owner of X, had shared a similar idea just a few weeks earlier on his own platform. Musk had expressed his desire to incorporate a horizontal swipe gesture as part of an update for his social network.
This similarity between Musk’s vision and Zuckerberg’s execution inevitably raises questions about originality. and ethics in technological competition. However, it is important to note that while the core idea is similar, the goals behind its implementation differ between the two tech moguls.
What explanation did Zuckerberg give?
Zuckerberg has stated that the introduction of this feature in Threads is intended to give users greater control over the algorithm. of the platform, in line with trends observed in popular applications such as TikTok. On the other hand, Musk had expressed interest in a more simplified interface for X, reflecting a more fluid and focused user experience.
Even though Threads has yet to achieve mass success, with 130 million monthly active users, its focus on messaging and its exclusion of news and politics make it attractive to certain segments of users. This update, although inspired by Musk’s vision, could be a crucial step in improving the user experience on the Meta platform.
The rivalry between Zuckerberg and Musk is not a secret in the technological world. From the launch of Threads as an alternative to Twitter to the public exchanges and challenges between the two, the competition has been evident. The implementation of a feature that Musk had suggested for his own platform in Zuckerberg’s application only intensifies this rivalry.
As a last resort, The battle for supremacy in the social media sphere seems far from over. The implementation of new features like horizontal scrolling is just one more chapter in this story of competition and constant adaptation between two of the most influential minds in the technology industry.
As Zuckerberg and Musk continue to innovate and compete, users can expect to see more exciting and possibly controversial developments in the social media landscape. What is clear is that in this game of technological titans, inspiration and competition go hand in hand, driving the evolution of digital platforms towards new frontiers.
Keep reading:
– What is Threads like, the new Meta social network that aims to surpass Twitter
– Threads now allows you to delete your profile without affecting your Instagram account
– Become a Threads expert! Learn how to create your account and take full advantage of the features of Mark Zuckerberg’s new app