What you need to know
- Threads is reportedly starting a test in the U.S. called "Gems."
- These are badges that the platform's algorithm will reportedly hand out to posts and replies that spur conversation with original thoughts, perspective, and more.
- Earlier this year, Threads rolled out "Dear Algo," which puts users in the driver's seat of their algorithm for content they want to see more of.
Meta is starting a new test in the U.S. on Threads to spotlight posts and comments from users that get the conversation going.
Meta published an "About Gems on Threads" document this week, highlighting the test (via Android Headlines). The company states a "Threads Gem" will appear on "public posts and replies that started or continued these (standout) conversations." An automated system within the Threads app is responsible for dishing out these purple badges.
Gems are given based on the level of conversation, "not on how many followers a profile has." The company clarifies that Gems are decided based on a few factors, such as "Perspective." If a conversation or comment brings a fresh take (or a hot take), that could be the catalyst for a Gem badge. Originality is another key player in deciding these new badges.
Threads will also factor in the level of discussion, which seems like the bar for something like this. It states that if the post or reply facilitates "real back-and-forth dialogue" that progresses the thread, that might warrant a Gem.
Everything isn't fair game for Gems on Threads. The document says content is only eligible if you've posted on Threads and you're directly replying to the original post (if you're replying to a reply, that won't count). If you're given a Gem badge, it'll appear publicly for everyone to see, and you'll receive a notification about it.
You're a Gem
This reminds me of a forum—the Gem badges. If you frequent Reddit, you'll see badges there, too. They're called Awards over there, and they're given by the people. Threads kind of took that same concept, but handed the keys over to its software. I don't think it's a bad idea ... the Gems, not the algorithm part. It brings more of a sense of community. An online community that's interacting and talking through things.
Threads has had a couple of updates worthy of discussion. If we're talking about discussions on the internet (oh boy), you can't leave out the hottest of hot takes. Threads rolled out "ghost posts," otherwise known as disappearing posts. Users can set a ghost post to disappear in 24 hours. Threads says it rolled out ghost posts for "fresh takes/thoughts." Users can post their hot takes and more without "the pressure of permanence or polish."
However, since these are active for a time on the platform, others can reply. If this happens, all replies are sent to your DMs.
Threads had another update earlier this year called "Dear Algo." This is a system that puts users in the driver's seat of the algorithm. You can control what you see on Threads for up to three days via a "request." Users can share their algorithm requests with others to share the vibes.
