How to Sign Up and Use Threads

Updated 14 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide walks you through creating a Threads account and using the app to post, follow, and engage. You’ll need a smartphone with the Threads app installed (iOS or Android) or a computer with a web browser, plus an Instagram account—Threads requires one to sign up.

What You’ll Need

An Instagram account (you can create one during signup if you don’t have one)
A smartphone with iOS 14+ or Android 8+ (for the app) or a desktop browser (for the web version)
Internet connection

Step-by-Step

Install the Threads app – Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for “Threads, an Instagram app.” Tap “Get” or “Install” and wait for it to download.
Open Threads – Tap the app icon on your home screen. You’ll see the Threads logo and a “Log in with Instagram” button.
Log in with Instagram – Tap the button. If you’re already logged into Instagram on your device, Threads will use that account. If not, enter your Instagram username and password. If you don’t have an Instagram account, tap “Create a new account” and follow the prompts to set one up (you’ll need an email or phone number).
Set up your profile – After logging in, you’ll be asked to import your Instagram profile info (photo, bio, link). You can keep it or edit it. Then tap “Continue.”
Choose privacy – You’ll see two options: “Public” (anyone can see your posts) or “Private” (only approved followers can see). Select the one you prefer and tap “Continue.”
Follow people – Threads will show suggestions based on your Instagram follows. You can tap “Follow” next to anyone you want to follow, or tap “Skip” to skip this step. You can always follow people later.
Start using Threads – You’re in! The home feed shows posts from people you follow. To create a post, tap the pencil icon (or the “+” button) at the bottom of the screen.
Write your first post – Type your text (up to 500 characters). You can add photos, videos (up to 5 minutes), or links. Tap “Post” to publish.
Engage with others – Like a post by tapping the heart icon. Reply by tapping the speech bubble icon. Repost by tapping the repost icon (two arrows). Quote by tapping the repost icon and choosing “Quote.”
Use the web version – If you’re on a computer, go to threads.net and log in with your Instagram account. The interface is similar, but you can’t post photos or videos from the web—only text and links.

Common Mistakes

Using a different Instagram account – Threads is tied to one Instagram account. If you log in with the wrong one, you’ll see a different feed. Double-check which account you’re using.
Expecting to sign up without Instagram – Threads requires an Instagram account. You can’t create a Threads account independently.
Posting more than 500 characters – Threads has a 500-character limit. Longer posts will be truncated, so keep it short.
Forgetting to set privacy – If you want a private account, you must choose that during setup. You can change it later in settings, but many people forget.
Thinking Threads is the same as Twitter – While similar, Threads doesn’t have direct messages (DMs) or hashtags. Don’t expect those features.

Tips

Link your Instagram bio – You can add a link to your Threads profile in your Instagram bio to help friends find you.
Use the “Following” feed – By default, the home feed shows “For You” (algorithmic). Tap the Threads logo at the top to switch to “Following” to see only people you follow.
Mute or block – If someone annoys you, tap the three-dot menu on their post and choose “Mute” or “Block.”
Edit posts – You can edit a post within 5 minutes of posting. Tap the three-dot menu on your post and choose “Edit.”
Use the app’s activity tab – The heart icon at the bottom shows likes, replies, and follows. Check it regularly to stay engaged.

Troubleshooting

Can’t log in – Make sure your Instagram credentials are correct. If you’re still stuck, try resetting your Instagram password via the Instagram app or website.
App crashes or freezes – Update Threads to the latest version, restart your phone, or uninstall and reinstall the app. Your data won’t be lost.
Feed is empty – If you haven’t followed anyone, the feed will be blank. Follow some accounts or switch to “For You” to see suggested posts.
Can’t post photos or videos – On the web version, media upload is not supported. Use the mobile app to post photos or videos.
Notifications not working – Check your phone’s notification settings for Threads and make sure they’re enabled. Also check in-app settings under “Notifications.”
Account deleted by mistake – If you delete your Threads account, it also deletes your Instagram account. To avoid this, you can deactivate Threads temporarily instead. If you’ve already deleted, contact Instagram support immediately—but note that this is irreversible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an Instagram account to use Threads?

Yes, Threads requires an Instagram account. You can create one during signup if you don’t have one.

Can I use Threads without the app?

Yes, you can use Threads on the web at threads.net, but you can only post text and links—not photos or videos.

Is Threads free?

Yes, Threads is completely free to use, with no ads currently.

Can I delete my Threads account without deleting Instagram?

No, deleting your Threads account will also delete your Instagram account. However, you can deactivate Threads temporarily without affecting Instagram.

How do I change my privacy settings?

Go to your profile, tap the two lines icon (top right), then “Privacy.” There you can switch between Public and Private.

Can I use hashtags on Threads?

No, Threads does not support hashtags. You can use plain text or emojis instead.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.