In March, Audacy reported that Meta – the parent company of Facebook and Instagram – was developing a text-based app to rival Twitter.
Now, it looks like the app will be an extension of Instagram, according to the Substack ICYMI by Lia Haberman. She posted what appear to be leaked screenshots related to the project.
Since Tesla CEO Elon Musk took over Twitter last November, the social media app has been embroiled in controversy. Musk’s changes, including mass firings and changes to the Twitter verification system, have drawn criticism.
In the wake of this controversy, a crop of Twitter alternatives has popped up, including Spoutible, Mastodon and Bluesky, a project from Twitter founder Jack Dorsey. Bluesky is still in beta-test mode.
Moneycontrol first reported on the plans for the new Twitter-like app from Meta “codenamed P92,” according people familiar with the matter. Haberman said the project has also been called “Barcelona.”
“We’re exploring a standalone decentralized social network for sharing text updates,” said a statement Meta provided to Moneycontrol, Reuters, and CNN Business in March. “We believe there’s an opportunity for a separate space where creators and public figures can share timely updates about their interests.”
Haberman described the Meta project as a “new, decentralized, social media network,” built on the back of Instagram but compatible with other apps, such as Mastodon. She said a creator told her that: there’s a single sign-on for Instagram users; that users of the new app would be able to sync up with their existing followers; that handles, bios and verification would carry over from Instagram and that users on other apps will be able search for, follow and interact with profiles.
“The company is currently testing the project idea with celebrities and influencers, according to people familiar with the matter,” said Bloomberg. “Instagram has been in discussions with select creators for months, though none of them has had access to the full version of the app, according to one of the people.”
Per Haberman’s report, the new app will allow posts with up to 500 characters, which is less than an Instagram caption, extended Tweet or LinkedIn post. It is also expected to have “a centralized feed showcasing your followers and recommended content,” and allow users to attach links photos and videos up to five minutes long. Similar to Twitter, it will have like, reply and repost options.
Additionally, the report said it will have features to can control replies, mentions and easily block or report spam as well as to carry over blocks on accounts and hidden words from Instagram.
“All new details have surfaced based on secret calls Meta has been having with select creators, hinting at a potential release in late June,” Haberman said. She also said there is “currently no set plan for monetization being shared.”
Instagram, owned by Meta Platforms Inc., didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment, according to Bloomberg and The Verge said Meta declined to comment. Bloomberg reported that Meta shares had been trading lower early Friday but “turned positive on the news, touching their highest level since early 2022.”
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