Threads – Programming Languages That Built It
Threads is a microblogging platform designed as a rival to Twitter (now X). It allows users to post and share text-based updates, photos, and videos. Posts (called “threads”) can be up to 500 characters long, and users can reply, like, repost, and quote other posts.
The Threads app is a text-based social media platform developed by Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram. It was launched on July 5, 2023, and is closely integrated with Instagram.
The Threads app by Meta (formerly Facebook) was built using a combination of programming languages and technologies, similar to other large-scale social platforms. Although Meta hasn’t officially published a full tech stack breakdown specifically for Threads, based on Meta’s typical engineering practices and public information, the following languages are likely involved:
1. Frontend (Mobile Apps)
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Swift – for the iOS version of the app.
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Kotlin – for the Android version.
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React Native – Meta is a major contributor to React Native and often uses it for cross-platform components or prototyping, so it may be used in parts of Threads.
2. Backend
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Hack (PHP variant) – Meta developed the Hack language as a statically typed version of PHP, and it powers much of their backend infrastructure via the HHVM (HipHop Virtual Machine).
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Python – widely used within Meta for internal tools, data pipelines, and AI/ML integrations.
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C++ – used where high performance is necessary, especially in infrastructure and machine learning systems.
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Go (Golang) – may be used for certain backend services, as Meta has adopted Go in some systems (e.g., internal tools or APIs).
3. Infrastructure & Other Components
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GraphQL – Meta created GraphQL and heavily uses it for APIs between frontend and backend.
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JavaScript/TypeScript – likely used in any web-based dashboards or companion tools.
4. AI/ML and Data
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Python (again) – for AI-driven content recommendations, moderation, and analytics.
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PyTorch – Meta’s preferred deep learning framework, likely used for content moderation and feed ranking.
We will provide you with an update when Meta officially publish a full tech stack breakdown.