Instagram Threads, the upcoming Twitter competitor developed by Meta, will not be launched in the European Union (EU) due to privacy concerns raised by Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC).
The DPC has been in contact with Meta regarding the new product and confirmed that its release will not extend to the EU “at this point.” Threads, set to launch on July 6, 2023, is a text-based conversation app designed to allow Instagram users to discuss various topics, follow accounts, and stay updated on trends.
While the DPC has not actively blocked the launch of Threads, Meta has chosen to take a cautious approach in bringing the service to the EU, given the region’s stringent privacy protections. The app’s listing has appeared on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, but it is not yet available for download. The App Store’s “App Privacy” section indicates that the application is expected to collect a wide range of user data, raising concerns about data privacy.
This development aligns with previous incidents where tech companies have postponed launches in the EU due to privacy reasons. Google, for instance, delayed the release of its AI chatbot Bard in the EU for similar concerns.
Instagram’s CEO, Adam Mosseri, mentioned in an interview that the EU launch of Threads is being postponed due to complexities in complying with upcoming laws. He emphasized the need for forward compatibility with future regulations.
The decision to halt the launch of Instagram Threads in the EU underscores the importance of privacy compliance and adherence to stringent regulations in the region. As tech companies navigate evolving privacy landscapes, they must ensure that their products and services align with legal requirements to protect user data.
