Observed Signal · Jul 6, 2023 · Regulation · Source: Trending Topics · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Negative
Meta's Instagram Threads Delayed in EU Over Data Concerns
Meta launched its new social media app, Instagram Threads, in the US and UK on July 6, 2023, but it will not be available in the EU due to privacy concerns raised by the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC). The app, which competes with Twitter, imports data from Instagram, including health, location, search history, and sensitive information, which violates EU GDPR guidelines. Meta has not prepared for an EU launch and is waiting for clearer digital markets legislation that defines 'gatekeeper' roles. Threads allows posts up to 500 characters, longer than Twitter's 280-character limit for non-Blue users. The DPC was contacted about the service, and while it hasn't actively blocked it, Meta has not launched in Europe. This is another instance of Meta's data integration practices being restricted in the EU.
Meta's Threads launch is a major platform event; its absence in the EU due to privacy concerns affects the social media landscape and advertising opportunities in Europe.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Meta launched Instagram Threads in the US and UK on July 6, 2023.
- Threads will not be available in the EU due to privacy concerns from the Irish Data Protection Commission.
- Threads imports Instagram user data including health, location, and search history, violating EU GDPR.
- Threads supports posts up to 500 characters, surpassing Twitter's 280-character limit for non-verified users.
- Meta has not fully prepared for an EU launch, potentially due to unclear EU digital markets law.
Connected Companies & Entities
2 Entities mapped“Facebook parent company Meta is launching a new feature in its Instagram app today in the US and UK, which is meant to compete with Twitter....”
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