Meta's upcoming Threads combines the best of Twitter and Instagram

Meta's Twitter competitor, Threads, briefly appeared on Google Play, offering a glimpse of the upcoming app, and then disappeared.

Although the appearance of Threads on Google Play was likely a mistake, the screenshots provided a glimpse into the app's user interface. The login screen allowed users to sign in using their Instagram accounts, and another screen displayed a list of followed accounts from Instagram, giving users the option to choose whom to follow on Threads.

Threads looks a lot like Twitter: new posts show the number of characters and the ability to attach files. The interface include familiar icons for likes, reposts, replies and messaging, and user profile images. The recognizable blue Instagram ticks are also present in Threads.

In development since January under the name "Project 92," Threads has been a priority for Meta. Meta's chief product officer, Chris Cox, described Threads as a platform that aims to provide a more well-managed environment for creators and public figures, in contrast to Twitter's reputation.

Although Meta has not officially announced a release date for Threads, its appearance in the Google Play store suggests that the launch is very soon.