Install Threads from the App Store, get through the first setup screens, and tune your iPhone so notifications, Focus modes, photos and storage all work the way you want. Includes an iPhone settings finder for your iOS version and fixes for the most common App Store errors.
Tap the blue App Store icon, then tap Search at the bottom.
Pick the app whose seller is Instagram, Inc. Ignore look-alikes.
Double-click the side button for Face ID, or use Touch ID or your Apple Account password.
Tap Open, then Log in with Instagram. If Instagram is on your iPhone, your account is suggested.
When iOS asks, tap Allow so you see replies, mentions and messages.
Asked for a payment method? Threads is free. If the App Store asks you to add payment details or verify your Apple Account, that's an Apple Account check, not a Threads charge. You can choose None as payment method in Settings → your name → Payment & Shipping (where available).
On iPhones managed with Screen Time or Family Sharing, Threads can be hidden or need approval.
Threads is rated 13+. If Screen Time only allows apps rated lower, it won't show in search. Change it in Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → App Store, Media, Web & Games → Apps.
For children in a Family Sharing group, tapping Get sends a request to the organiser. The download starts after a parent approves it on their device.
If Installing Apps is set to Don't Allow in Content & Privacy Restrictions → iTunes & App Store Purchases, no app can be installed until it's changed.
You must be at least 13 to use Threads. Parents: see Threads privacy settings for controls inside the app.
Tick each step as you go - your progress stays on this page only.
🎉 All set. Next: polish your profile or find something to post.
iOS 18 moved app settings into Settings → Apps, so paths depend on your version. Pick your iOS and what you want to change.
Can't find a menu? Swipe down in Settings and use the search bar to type "Threads".
iOS asks only when you use a feature. Change any of them later in Settings → Apps → Threads (or Settings → Threads on iOS 17 and earlier).
Replies, mentions, follows and messages. Asked when you first open the app.
To add photos and videos to posts. Choose Full or Limited access.
To take photos or videos inside Threads.
For recording video with sound.
To find friends who use Threads. Not needed to use the app.
iOS may ask whether Threads can track activity across other apps. Choose what you're comfortable with.
In Photos or Safari, tap the Share button and choose Threads to start a post with that photo or link. Not listed? Tap More and add it.
Long-press a threads.com link and choose Open in "Threads". After that, links usually open in the app automatically.
Keep getting replies during Work or Personal Focus: Settings → Focus → pick a Focus → Apps → Add → Threads.
Threads follows your iPhone's appearance. Switch in Settings → Display & Brightness, or from Control Centre.
Threads supports Dynamic Type. Make text larger in Settings → Display & Brightness → Text Size.
Low on space? Offload App removes the app but keeps its data, so reinstalling is instant and you stay set up.
Check your Threads version: profile → menu → Settings → About.
Pick the message or problem you see.
Check your connection, then tap the app icon on your Home Screen to retry. If it stays stuck, restart your iPhone and try again from the App Store.
Long-press the app icon and tap Resume Download, or Prioritise Download. Signing out of the App Store and back in can also help.
Update in Settings → General → Software Update. If your iPhone can't update, use threads.com in Safari.
Your Screen Time age limit may hide 13+ apps, or your Apple Account country may not offer Threads. See the Screen Time section above.
The App Store sometimes asks you to verify your Apple Account or payment method. Threads itself is free.
Free space in Settings → General → iPhone Storage. Offload apps you rarely use or delete large videos.
Update Threads, restart your iPhone, then offload and reinstall the app. Your posts and followers are safe on your account.
Check Settings → Notifications → Threads, turn off or adjust any Focus, and enable Background App Refresh.
More help: Threads install problems · Threads not working · login problems · notifications