Despite trailing behind other platforms in its niche, Meta’s Threads app is witnessing a notable surge in user acquisition, according to the latest insights from Appfigures, a comprehensive app download activity tracker.

While distinguishing between “downloads” and “active users” is crucial, the ongoing traction experienced by Threads is undoubtedly a positive sign, attracting a growing audience eager to explore the app’s features.

As outlined by TechCrunch:

“In December 2023, Threads garnered an impressive 12 million new downloads, securing the fourth position in Apple’s App Store Top Charts for downloads. Simultaneously, it achieved 16 million downloads on Google Play, placing it at the eighth spot. Combining both stores, Threads claimed the sixth spot for new installs.”

These statistics align with expectations, especially considering Threads’ introduction to European users on December 14th. Predictably, the EU launch contributed to approximately 25 million additional downloads when compared to Instagram adoption figures versus Threads.

While these numbers reflect a surge tied to a significant event, such as the European launch, they underscore Threads’ sustained growth potential and its continued pursuit to compete with established players.

Nevertheless, some cautionary signs have emerged.

Before December, Threads experienced a notable slowdown in downloads, and influential former Twitter users are displaying a preference for sticking with the established platform or returning to it, leveraging their existing substantial followings.

An analysis of the top 50 most-followed profiles on the leading platform revealed that nearly half of them lack a presence on Threads. This signals a challenge for the app in terms of winning over influential users.

Major sports and news accounts, as well as renowned Indian celebrities, are maintaining their loyalty to the leading platform. Given the significance of these accounts in shaping the Twitter/X experience, Threads faces a considerable challenge in persuading them to make the switch, potentially hindering its growth momentum.

Despite these challenges, it is still early days for Threads, and a positive trajectory toward 200 million monthly users is anticipated, compared to X’s reported 500 million monthly active users. The considerable gap leaves ample room for growth, and external factors, such as controversies involving key figures, could further influence a shift away from X.

Simultaneously, X grapples with the ongoing struggle to regain the trust of advertising partners, a factor that will significantly shape its future trajectory.