Instagram’s Threads Testing Real-Time Search Results Feature
Instagram’s Threads is currently testing a new feature that allows users to view real-time search results directly on their feeds. This functionality, introduced for select users, is anticipated to be rolled out to all users later this year. Threads, launched by Instagram last year, has drawn comparisons to X (formerly Twitter) due to its similar features, including both chronological and algorithm-based feeds. However, X still boasts certain functionalities not yet available on the Meta-owned service.
Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, confirmed the testing of real-time search options in a post on Threads. Responding to a user’s claim about the addition of ‘Top’ and ‘Recent’ buttons at the top of the feed, Mosseri clarified that the ‘Recent’ section does not precisely represent a chronological timeline but rather displays more recent posts compared to the ‘Top’ feed.
Currently, the real-time search feature is being tested with a limited number of Threads users. Mosseri emphasized that if users do not see the new sections on their timelines after updating to the latest version of the application, they are not part of the test group. While a global rollout may occur eventually, Meta has not provided a specific timeline for its release.
In addition to real-time search, Threads recently introduced the saved posts feature, enabling users to bookmark specific posts for later viewing—a feature already present on platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram. Moreover, Threads is experimenting with a new ‘Today’s Topics’ section, expected to showcase trending posts in real-time, albeit without hashtags, presented as plain text topics with accompanying top posts for user engagement and discussion.
