Threads is beta testing a new feature that will enable users to follow the same creators they already follow on X. 

TechCrunch reports that users are seeing pop-up notifications telling them to “Find popular creators from X” as they open their Threads app. Clicking it leads to instructions on how to download the following list from X and import it into Threads.

This feature won’t bring in everyone a user follows just yet. Meta spokesperson Alec Booker confirmed in a statement that the test targets popular creators. “We’re currently testing a way for you to find and follow creators from other platforms on Threads, making it easier to connect with the people and conversations that matter to you,” Booker said.

How users can download and upload their X data to Threads.net

According to the pop-up message, users can download and upload their X data to Threads with these steps. They can open the X app, tap their profile, go to Settings and privacy, then Your account, and select Download an archive of their data. 

After receiving an email (within 3 days), they should download and unzip the data file. In the Data folder, users can locate the following.js file and upload it to Threads.net.

Why Meta is allowing users to follow creators from alternative platforms 

Meta wants to allow users to follow creators from other platforms to attract more users to Threads. The plan is to make it easier for people switching from X to find and connect with familiar accounts.

The company has been trying to draw users who may still be active on X but are looking for alternatives. Since Elon Musk acquired X, many users have moved to Threads and Bluesky, claiming that they are less chaotic spaces for conversations. 

But it's not a free run. X is doubling down on its creator and video tools, recently rolling out a dedicated video tab for U.S. users and teasing its long-term vision of an “everything app” with a partnership with Visa, as it moves towards launching its digital payments platform, X Money.' 

Threads also have Bluesky to worry about. The decentralized social platform hit 30 million users in January and is rolling out updates fast. New features include 3-minute video upload limits, chat requests for filtering messages, and a growing suite of video discovery tools like custom feeds and a dedicated video tab.

But Threads still hold a major edge in scale. The app has 320 million monthly active users, far outpacing Bluesky’s reach.

Threads is also expanding its tools and features

Threads also is not stopping, and this beta test builds on other updates Threads has rolled out in recent months. Brands and creators can now schedule posts ahead of time and track performance with view counts.

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