Meta Introduces Community Notes Feature in Threads: A Shift in Moderation Strategy
Last week, Meta announced its decision to transition from a traditional fact-checking system to a “Community Notes” model reminiscent of that used on X. Early indications reveal that this feature is currently under experimentation within the Threads app. Developer Alessandro Paluzzi, known for his insights into Meta’s applications, revealed three screenshots showcasing an initial glimpse of the upcoming Community Notes functionality.
New Community Collaboration Tool Unveiled
The screenshots posted by Paluzzi highlight a new option labeled “Write Community Note” accessible via the menu in the corner of any given Threads post. Users who opt for this feature will have the opportunity to submit their notes anonymously; should their contributions be deemed helpful through user ratings, these notes will then appear alongside the original post. This setup mirrors X’s approach to community moderation that began with Twitter’s earlier ”Birdwatch” initiative before being rebranded.
users can write community notes on Threads.” src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/WIADs2vgDyn28zpCKY4RgA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTEwNzQ-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2025-01/76b72170-d204-11ef-9575-8d98e4b0e768″ height=”1074″ width=”960″/>
Image Credit: Alessandro Paluzzi
Response from Meta and Changes in Political Content Engagement
Engadget has contacted Meta regarding additional details about this new feature for Threads and will provide updates as information becomes available.
The introduction of Community Notes is part of a broader evolution within Threads as it adapts its moderation practices under Meta’s governance. Historically resistant to political discussions, Threads is now poised to incorporate suggestions for political content in users’ feeds. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram and Threads, recently shared a brief clip demonstrating how users can customize their exposure to political material within their feeds on the platform.
User engagement options include: “See less,” which aims to minimize political content visibility; “Standard,” offering a balanced mix which includes some political posts; and “See more,” where users encounter political content at similar frequencies as other topics present throughout the app.
A Step Towards Addressing User Concerns?
The efficacy of introducing features like Community Notes or adjustable controls for political content remains uncertain—there is little evidence suggesting these changes directly alleviate existing frustrations among users regarding threads’ environment or enhance satisfaction levels. However, they do align with Meta’s ongoing efforts to cultivate an image of championing user expression amid rising concerns over online discourse regulation.
