Instagram’s Twitter alternative – Threads – is here, and it’s quite simple to set up and use. However, while the Threads app is a step up in terms of UI, it might not be your cup of tea for a variety of reasons. So, if you have set up your account on the platform and don’t want to use it anymore, learn how to delete Threads account (or deactivate it temporarily).
Previously, deleting a Threads account was overly convoluted, because of the simple fact that once you were on Threads, the only way to remove your account was to remove your Instagram account. Yes, not merely deactivating your Instagram account but deleting it was the only way.
However, Instagram’s Twitter alternative has finally addressed this BIG concern. You can now delete your Threads account without having to even touch your Instagram account.
Moreover, the steps to do so are the same on Android and iOS devices. We are using an Android device in this case to take you through the process. Follow the steps to deactivate or delete your Threads account here:
1. Open the Threads app on your Android or iOS device and head to your Profile from the bottom panel.
2. Now, tap on the hamburger menu in the top right corner of your screen.
3. Next, move to Account settings from here. You will see the option to Deactivate or delete profile. Tap on it.
Note: If you choose to deactivate your Threads account, do note that you can deactivate it once a week. Also, if you deactivate your Instagram account, your Threads account will automatically get deactivated as well. However, deactivating your Threads account does not affect your Instagram account in any way.
4. On the next page, you will see dedicated buttons to Deactivate profile or Delete profile. Tap on the option that suits your needs.
5. If you tap the deactivate button, you will see a confirmation pop-up window where you just need to tap the Deactivate again to instantly deactivate your account.
6. However, if you go ahead and choose the delete option, you will need to enter your Threads credentials on the next page. Then, tap the Delete Threads profile button to submit your account deletion request to Threads instantly.
After you follow these steps, Threads doesn’t immediately delete your account. As per the Instagram support page, Threads can take up to 90 days to permanently delete your account after you submit your request. Also, a 30-day window gets triggered when you request the deletion of your Threads account. Within these 30 days, you can simply log back in to cancel the account deletion, in case you have changed your mind.
Note: Although deleting your Threads account doesn’t require you to delete your Instagram account anymore if you do delete your Instagram account, do note that your Threads account will automatically get deleted.
With that, we have reached the end of this guide. Hopefully, we have been able to make the process of deactivating or deleting your Threads account easier. Do let us know in the comments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What’s the difference between deactivating and deleting a Threads account?
Deactivating your Threads account happens instantly and it temporarily hides it from other users on the platform. Your likes, posts, replies, or followers are not deleted but temporarily hidden when you deactivate. When you want to reactivate your account, you simply need to log back in and all your data is restored.
However, when you choose to delete your Threads account, an account deletion request is submitted, and a 30-day window is initiated. Within these 30 days, you can undo the account deletion process by simply logging in to your account. However, if you don’t, you lose access to your account and after around 90 days, your account gets deleted permanently.
Q. Does deleting a Threads account delete Instagram?
No, deleting your Threads account doesn’t delete your Instagram account. However, since your Threads account is still managed by your Instagram account, deleting your Instagram account will automatically delete your Threads account as well.
Q. Can I delete Threads without deleting Instagram?
Previously, the only way to delete your Threads account was to delete your Instagram account as well. After receiving heavy criticism for this move, months later, the platform finally allows you to delete your Threads account independent of your Instagram account.
Q. How to remove Threads from Instagram?
You can delete or deactivate your Threads profile to unlink it from Instagram. Or, you can simply hide your Threads badge that appears on your Instagram profile. To do so, navigate to Your Instagram Profile -> Edit Profile ->Toggle off the “Show Threads Badge” option.
