How to sign up to Threads

Step 1: Download the Threads app.

On either your iPhone or Android, open the Google Play store or Apple Store on your phone. Search "Threads" and hit download. The app is free. (You can also find a direct link in your Instagram app — tap the three lines in the top right corner to open Settings, then click "Threads", which will take you to your app store.)

Step 2: Log in with Instagram.

When you open the Threads app, a button at the bottom of the screen will guide you to log in with your Instagram account. You can switch between Instagram accounts, choosing which one to use, if necessary.

Step 3: Create your profile.

From there, you'll be asked to create a profile, with a picture, a bio, and the option to add links. You can also import your info from Instagram, so whatever is in your current Instagram profile automatically migrates to Threads.

Step 4: Decide whether you want your profile to be public or private.

Threads will then ask you to choose between public and private profiles. With a public account, anyone on or off Threads can see your content. If private, your account will only be available to approved followers.

Step 5: Follow accounts.

You can either instantly follow all the accounts you already follow on Instagram, or choose who to follow manually. If you follow someone who isn't on Threads yet, they'll appear as "pending" until they've joined.

Step 6: Start exploring!

Your account is now ready to go. You can browse through the home page, follow more accounts, and post your own Threads. If your feed is full of accounts you don't follow, you can change the settings using this guide. Let's see how it all works out.