Social media is changing again, and this time it’s all about letting go. Meta’s platform Threads has launched a new feature called ‘Ghost Posts,’ which allows users to share updates that automatically disappear after 24 hours. The feature is designed for people who want to express themselves freely without worrying about long-term visibility.
A fresh take on temporary sharing
The idea behind Ghost Posts is simply share what’s on your mind today, and let it fade tomorrow. Just like Instagram Stories or Snapchat snaps, these posts give users the freedom to post casually, experiment, and stay authentic.
When creating a post, users will now see a small ghost icon. Tapping it turns the post into a temporary one that vanishes after a day. This makes Threads feel lighter, faster, and more spontaneous a shift away from the pressure of carefully curated feeds that dominate many platforms.
Privacy meets expression
Meta says the goal is to make Threads a space for ‘casual creativity.’ Users can speak more openly, knowing their posts won’t stay forever. Another interesting twist is that replies to Ghost Posts don’t appear publicly. Instead, they go straight to the user’s inbox, making interactions more private and meaningful. Likes and replies are also hidden from the public, giving users control over their conversations.
This design could appeal to younger audiences and everyday users who are tired of performative social media. It encourages authenticity, real thoughts, quick jokes, and unfiltered updates without worrying about how a post might look days or months later.
Why meta is doing this
With around 400 million active users, Threads has grown rapidly since its launch in 2023. But Meta wants to deepen engagement and make Threads stand out from competitors like X (formerly Twitter). Ghost Posts seem to be part of that strategy offering a feature that blends privacy, ease, and ephemerality.
It’s also a response to changing user habits. Many social media users now prefer temporary content because it feels safer, less serious, and more ‘in the moment.’ By making short-lived sharing central to Threads, Meta hopes to build a community focused on connection rather than perfection.
A step toward healthier social media
Experts believe features like Ghost Posts may reduce social pressure and online anxiety. When users don’t feel judged by likes or comments, they’re more likely to share honestly. It’s a small step toward making social media less about performance and more about presence.
Still, questions remain: will disappearing content affect accountability or moderation? How will it balance privacy with safety? Meta says it will continue monitoring feedback to improve the feature.
For now, Ghost Posts mark another evolution in how people communicate online. It’s social media but lighter, friendlier, and fleeting, just like real conversations.
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