Threads has surpassed X in daily active users on mobile devices worldwide for the first time, according to Similarweb data. Last week, Threads averaged 130.2 million daily users, just ahead of X at 130.1 million. On September 20, Threads reached 128.7 million daily active users compared to X’s 127.1 million, marking a rare lead in a space long dominated by X.

This data is significant for Threads. It confirms that Threads is becoming strong competition for X. Previously, in July, it was reported that Threads was closing in on X. Since September 5, when Similarweb first recorded Threads outpacing X, the two platforms have traded the top spot. 

A closer look at user growth and declines

X has continued to lose traction on mobile. In September 2024, the platform averaged 149.9 million daily mobile users worldwide. Threads, on the other hand, had just 81.1 million. Now, the gap has closed completely.

On iOS devices, Threads leads with 62.5 million daily users globally, while X lags at 56.6 million. In the U.S., however, Threads reached 16.2 million daily active mobile users on September 20, while X maintained a stronger base of 21.3 million.

X holds ground on web traffic and engagement

Despite the mobile gains for Threads, X still dominates web usage. On September 20, X recorded 140.7 million daily users on its website, x.com, compared to Threads’ 7.7 million on threads.com, which it officially moved to in April. Similarweb’s July data also showed X far ahead in average daily web visits, with 145.8 million compared to Threads’ 6.9 million.

Time spent on the platforms also favors X. On Android devices worldwide in August, users spent an average of 4 minutes and 4 seconds per session on X, nearly double the 2 minutes and 14 seconds on Threads.

Why Threads could be growing

Threads was launched in 2023 as an alternative to X following users’ frustration with changes under Elon Musk’s ownership. Its deep integration with Instagram has been a major driver of growth, with features promoting Threads inside Instagram’s feed. In April, the company also began beta testing a tool that allows users to follow the same creators they already follow on X.

Meta has added several new features to keep users engaged. The company has also opened ad placements globally and is testing video ads, signaling its intention to build Threads into a viable space for advertisers.

In August, Instagram head Adam Mosseri reported that Threads had surpassed 400 million monthly active users, up from 350 million in April.

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