Threads — UX Case Study | Part 2: UX Suggestions
I’m gonna suggest you to read Part 1: UX Review before getting into this one, you’ll know exactly in what context I’m talking about :)
I have redesigned Threads app in consideration with Apple iOS guidelines with the help of Apple Design Resources, making it easier for developer handoff! (coz eventually its development feasibility that matters, not just the design)
I’ve aimed to integrate best of both the worlds i.e Twitter and Instagram into this redesign exercise. I’ve tried to make the look and feel of the app design to be practical and how it would look like in daily usage.
Had great help from Figma plugins like Unsplash and Content Reel making it possible for realistic approach.
Thumb zone helps us understand the inclusivity of right/left thumb ease of access over multiple screens.
Using this as reference, as almost 80–90% of people are right handed people. I’ve changed the positioning of main Call-to-Actions(CTAs) (like, comment, repost, share) for interaction to the right side of the screen, which you’ll see below. Making it easier for training quick habitual interactions.
So lets start exploring different screens!
1. Home
- Added hashtags! One of the major things missing from Threads app.
- Worked on contrast of different elements so that key focus is on the content and nowhere else!
- Fixed Call-to-Actions(CTAs) positioning to the right for easier interactions.
- Added other content creator tools that Instagram already uses like Polls, Location tagging. The replies also looks differently within the thread.
- Brought change in the iconography of bottom Navbar for easier understanding.
- Introduced notification counts! So that you’re always aware of what you’re missing out.
2. Search
- Introduced trending hot topics below the search bar itself, so that you get to know what others are talking about!
- An ‘Explore’ section to explore posts out there based on personalised history.
- Recommendation of suggested profiles from people you already follow in ‘Suggested for you’ section.
3. New Thread
- Introduced many creator tools for engagement like creating polls, location tags, external links, uploading photos/videos.
- Seamless navigation for smooth user experience.
- Enabling users to ‘Save Drafts’ to let them catch on from wherever they left earlier.
4. Activity
- Separate sections for recent/older notifications within the ‘All’ category.
- Filtered results for ‘Replies’ and ‘Mentions’ in separate tabs.
- Clear iconography with separate assigned colors for different notification types.
- Adding breathing space in layouting of username, profile pictures and content, making it similar and consistent for single/multiple user alerts.
- Each tab is highlighted with differentiated colors for each notification type, easier to identify the category.
5. Account
- No separate navigations for Privacy and Account controls, all are available in single menu on top right.
- Instagram navigation for easier switching between the apps.
- Your bio has highlighted links for clear understanding and better click-rate.
- ‘Share’ icon alongside ‘Edit Profile’ button, focusing edibility controls of the profile.
- Consistent tab highlight (similar to search page) of Threads and Replies section.
- Profile picture displayed in the bottom navbar for clear understanding of account you’re using currently.
So that’s all folks! We have come to an end with this UX exercise. I hope you got some insight into the design approach with proposed solutions. And if you have some recommendations or opinions about this case study, feel free to reach out to me!
I believe these improvements would engage more users and serve meaningful communication (though they’re addictive).
Design at Meta Instagram Engineering
Pro tip: Monitor and take care of your screen time using these social media apps.
“Swipe with intention, unplug for retention”
If you have missed out reading on Part 1: UX Review, check out now!
