Threads is taking steps toward independence, with Instagram chief Adam Mosseri announcing a move to reduce platform overlap.

Threads' shift towards independence includes removing Instagram-based recommendations from its onboarding process while still maintaining Instagram’s data to influence its "For You" feed.

Although the connection to Instagram has driven rapid growth—15 million sign-ups this month alone—Threads faces criticism for its lack of real-time relevance and restrictions on political content, criticisms linked to similarities between the interfaces of X and Threads.

Additionally, Threads mirrors TikTok’s algorithm-driven "most engaging" approach, prioritising entertainment over immediacy, which may contrast with users' expectations for timely updates, including breaking news.

Despite these challenges, Threads is on track to surpass X’s user base in early 2025. As it continues to evolve, Threads’ growing independence signals that the platform is quickly becoming one to watch.