Instagram Threads enhances content filtering with ‘hidden words’ feature

Instagram Threads

In a move reminiscent of Instagram's approach to combating offensive content, Threads, the messaging app developed by Meta, is rolling out a new feature called Hidden Words. This feature, announced by Instagram head Adam Mosseri, aims to automatically filter out potentially offensive words, phrases, or emoji from users' feeds and interactions by default. The Hidden Words feature will apply to content in both the "Following" and "For You" feeds, search results, profiles, and replies to posts.

For users who wish to exert greater control over the content filtered by Threads, the app offers the flexibility to add specific words, phrases, or emoji to the hidden list. This can be done by adjusting the settings within the Threads app. Meta says that users can toggle the Hidden Words feature on or off at any time, depending on their preferences. Notably, Instagram introduced a similar content filtering feature for comments back in 2016, subsequently extending it to direct messages (DMs).

How to hide words and phrases in Threads

Open Threads and tap your profile icon in the bottom navigation bar.

Tap the globe or padlock icon at the top left to access profile settings.

Navigate to "Hidden Words" in the settings.

Toggle the "Custom words and phrases" option to "On."

Select "Manage custom words and phrases."

Enter the words or phrases you wish to hide, separated by commas.

Tap "Add" to save your preferences.

Users can edit or delete hidden words by tapping on each entry within the "Manage custom words and phrases" section. This feature provides granular control over content filtering within the Threads app, offering a tailored and personalised experience for users.

Additional features under testing on Threads

Threads is also experimenting with new functionalities designed to enhance user control over post interactions. One such feature includes the ability to mute notifications for interactions related to specific posts. Users can manage these notifications by toggling the bell icon located in the top-right corner of a post.

Moreover, Threads is exploring a feature that allows users to specify who can quote their posts. This feature empowers users to select the audience for quoted content and provides an option to unquote posts if desired.