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Threads: Elevating the Instagram Experience or Just a Glorified Feature?

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threads logo on a smartphone

The newest app on the block, Threads, takes the social media world by storm. Developed by Instagram, it is a companion app designed to facilitate text sharing, posting updates, and engaging in public conversations. While some got excited about the idea, some dismissed it. They say that the app is just a glorified feature aiming to get the attention of a fleeting market. Let’s find out.

What Exactly is Threads?

threads log in page

Launched on July 5, 2023, Threads is a text-based conversation application. It is often compared to Twitter as the two operate in the same way. It is a platform that offers a feed of text-based posts to let users get updated on what’s happening around them.  

Opening an account on Threads will find you looking at feeds from accounts you follow. You’ll also find suggested content from creators and influencers that the platform’s algorithm thinks you will like. It is primarily a platform for communicating within your network and the whole world.

Threads allows you to write up to 500 characters and add photos, links, and videos. The name “Threads” came from the product Instagram launched in 2019. It was a “camera-first messaging app” to stay connected with friends. 

What are Threads’ Features?

threads

Instagram introduced Threads with the objective of providing a focused and dedicated platform for letting you connect with a select group of people. Its key features include:

Direct Messaging: it offers direct and seamless communication with your close friends. Threads puts your messages from select individuals in a dedicated inbox. This makes it easier to chat without distractions from other interactions on Instagram.

Integration with Instagram Stories: you can capture and share special moments as Threads incorporates Instagram’s Stories. You can easily and quickly share your photos and videos with close connections.

Automatic Status Updates: you can set automatic status updates to give glimpses of your activities, moods, and locations. 

Camera Access: Threads has a quick camera access button that lets you instantly capture photos and videos. This is perfect for sharing spontaneous moments with your close friends.

Close Friends List: you can create a list of close friends with whom you can share your more personal content. It is separate from Instagram’s regular followers to let you select which groups of people will see your activities.

Status and Privacy Settings: the app lets you customize your status settings. It allows you to determine who can see your automatic updates, giving you the power to keep control of your privacy.

The Positive Perspective

threads screenshot

Many users consider Threads an app that elevates their social media experience. The following factors make it an app worth having:

1. It fosters genuine communication and interactions among close friends. Threads provides a change in the way you engage with your close contacts on social media. It enables you to curate a list of only your close and trusted friends, making more meaningful interactions. 

2. It offers a space that’s free from distractions. The app has a dedicated space to communicate with close friends, separate from the main Instagram feed. This translates to a more focused and calm environment. A platform devoid of the distraction from viral posts, advertisements, and trending topics.

Threads has also gained the support of many users because of the following real-world use cases. These show the successful engagement made via Threads:

  • It provides a supportive network among friends. In instances where friends want to create a supportive network, they can do so in Threads. A great example is when a group of bikers want to share their rides, their struggles, the places they’ve been to, and many more. 
  • It enables friends from across the globe to have a unique platform to connect. Maintaining relationships with friends from all over the world is easy in this globalized world. It provides a space for auto-updating and direct messaging.
  • It is an effective platform to share and cultivate various interests. Threads lets you communicate seamlessly with your niche communities. Book club members, video gamers, and cooking enthusiasts can converse with like-minded people. 
  • It provides a platform to celebrate private wins and milestones. You and your friends can now celebrate milestones and life events more privately. You can celebrate birthdays, graduations, and job promotions more intimately and meaningfully.

Threads is a perfect example of a social media platform that prioritizes quality over quantity. Its capability to provide a platform for nurturing genuine relationships is the main reason users give it positive feedback.

The Skeptical Perspective

threads logo

As there is plenty of good feedback for Threads, it also has its share of the negatives. Here’s what the skeptics are saying about the app:

  • It duplicates features Instagram already has. They question the need for another app with the same direct messaging and close friends options as those of Instagram. Although Threads has automatic status updates, it does not compensate for its redundancy.
  • Skeptics believe that Threads does not address a distinct user demand. Existing platforms are already providing intimate updates with close friends. Hence, there is no longer a necessity for another one. 
  • Many users are questioning Threads’ long-term sustainability. When compared to Facebook Messenger or Snapchat’s Bitmoji, it seems to them that Threads will find it difficult to establish itself.

In summary, skeptics are hesitant about Threads’ uniqueness. Critics wonder if the app has enough distinctiveness to justify its separation from a huge platform or just be made as an extension of Instagram.

What the Users are Saying

In essence, user feedback on Threads is divided. While many see it as a valuable app for enhancing close connections, many see it as a redundant tool. The app’s focus on privacy and intimacy may be lost as some think it offers nothing different from its parent app. 

Conclusion

Designed to enhance intimate sharing among close friends, Threads has ignited debates about its existence. Users offer varying opinions about it, making us wonder if it’s a worthy app or just another one to add to the clutter.

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Technology

Top 10 Wireless Lavaliers of 2024

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lavalier

Vloggers, filmmakers, and podcasters prefer wireless microphones over wired ones. Aside from safety against trailing wires, it enables you to mic up a subject too far from the camera. By clipping a microphone to a wireless transmitter and attaching a receiver to your camera or smartphone, you can move freely and remain audible despite the distance. Worry no more! We’ll help you find one with our list of the Top 10 wireless lavaliers or lapels of 2024.

1. Rode Wireless Go II

rode wireless lavalier

The Wireless Go II extends the capabilities of the original Rode Wireless Go, offering a fantastic maximum range of 200m. Go II stands out because it’s available in a one-channel or two-channel kit. You can pair one or two clip-on transmitters with the miniature clip-on receiver unit. The receivers have built-in microphones. But, if you need a more discrete microphone, the Wireless Go II ki has an optional tie-clip mic. 

2. Shure PGXD14/85-X8 

shure lavalier

If you’re out in the market for an affordable and easy-to-use wireless microphone kit, consider the Shure PGXD14/85 wireless lavalier. It provides high-quality digital audio and features a handy tabletop receiver. The PGXD1 bodypack transmitter pairs up with the PGXD4 receiver, yielding excellent protection against feedback while providing proven sound quality. In addition, the one-touch scanning feature helps you instantly find a precise frequency for a strong connection between transmitter and receiver. 

Overall, the PGXD14/85 Lavalier wireless system provides the rock-solid microphone quality for which the Shure brand is famous.

3. Hollyland Lark Max 

hollyland lavalier

Even in a crowded, loud environment, Hollyland Lark Max offers the finest recording quality. The Environmental Noise Canceling (ENC) system recognizes and reduces environmental noise and captures low-frequency audio details. 

You can use Hollyland Lark Max for vlogging, outdoor filming, and interviews. You don’t need a separate app for the device; credit to its one-click recording feature. Inside the box, you will find all the accessories for connecting with the camera, computer, or smartphone. 

4. DJI Mic

dji mic lavalier

DJI Mic is ideal for vlogging, live streaming, and outdoor audio/video recording. One of the best wireless lavaliers today, the DJI MIC produces excellent recordings with maximum transmission and outstanding battery life. You can enjoy a maximum of 15 hours of battery because it has a charging case. With these fantastic features, you will no longer worry about battery levels while doing your project.

5. Pixel Voical Lark X

pixel lavalier

This wireless lavalier microphone system uses UHF tech to transmit the signal clearly and steadily. Connect the mic to a computer or smartphone to play music as the background audio, and insert your earphones into the receiver for monitoring and input functions. This feature is perfect for live streams or video conferences.

Pixel Voical Lark X  wireless lavalier microphone is compatible with smartphones, iPads, DSLR cameras, laptops, and PA speakers. In addition, the mic can be used directly with social media platforms for hassle-free video recording or live streaming. 

6. Boya BY-XM6-S2

boya lavalier

The Boya BY-XM6-S2 mic system is an excellent place to start if you’re on a budget and will undoubtedly elevate your projects’ audio production values. The kit includes a pre-paired mics and transmitter o, so you do not have a steep learning curve when first time to use the microphone. 

Boya BY-XM6-S2 is a close alternative to the Joby Wavo Air, but has extra features like on screen displays. In addition, the transmitters record audio through a built-in mic, which is useful even without using the supplied lavalier clip microphones. 

 7. Joby Wavo Air

joby lavalier

Capture crisp sound from two subjects with Joby Wavo Air. This wireless mic set enables you to capture broadcast-quality sound with the freedom to wander wirelessly. The transmitters’ bright orange colors make it more attractive. 

The bright color of the transmitters looks cool for vloggers showing off their gear. You can easily attach the transmitter with a magnetic pendant, no clips or fuss.

Unlike the Boya BY-XM6-S2, the receiver doesn’t have a headphone jack or waveform display. Monitor audio from your recording device to avoid signal issues. There’s a latency of three frames, so adjust audio in post-production.

8. Saramonic Blink 500 Pro B2

saramonic lavalier

Blink500 Pro kit enables you to capture robust and clean audio levels up to 100m if the transmitter mics have a line of sight with the receiver.The Blink500 Pro kit lets you capture clear audio up to 100m when the transmitter mics have a clear view of the receiver. Big displays show waveforms to help set and check audio levels. Included lavalier mics reduce wind noise in tough places.

It works with DSLRs and smartphones, but for newer iPhones, get a 3.5mm jack-to-lightning adaptor cable. The storage case also charges, ensuring both transmitters and receivers are ready for action. This avoids the risk of a mic or transmitter running out of power during a shoot, a common issue when charging separately.

9. Razer Seiren BT 

razer seiren lavalier

Razer Seiren BT is an excellent microphone for streaming and vlogging. The Omnidirectional Microphone captures voice clearly from any direction, offering flexibility without constantly holding the mic in one position. It also provides enhanced indoor and outdoor noise suppression to block noise like solid winds or crowds. 

10. Godox Virso / Virso S

godox lavalier

For a wireless lavalier with good distance recording, choose Godox Virso. The transmitters and receiver are already paired. If you have a Sony camera, go for Godox Virso S for a better signal with its hot shoe adaptor.

Overall, the Virso M2 by Godox has excellent audio quality, even at a distance or through thick walls. Plus, you get a charging carry case to keep everything powered up equally.

Conclusion

There you go. These ten best options for wireless lavaliers will help you find the right equipment for your content creation project. We’ve provided the key features of these items to give you an overview. Feel free to do your own research to ensure a well-informed decision before buying a wireless lavalier.

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Business

Is X Advertising Worth It in 2024? …Probably Not.

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X advertising represented by a sinking ship with Elon Musk onboard looking pensive

It was just a week ago that X chair Elon Musk told former X advertisers like Disney and Apple to “go f*ck themselves.” And in a shocking twist, it didn’t bring them back.

This all marks a dramatic turn the-artist-formerly-known-as-Twitter has taken over the past year. At the start of 2023, advertisers were bullish that the richest person in the world could turn the stagnant social network around. Now, the opposite seems increasingly likely.

As we enter 2024, many advertisers are asking the question: is advertising on X still worth it? Let’s take a look.

The war on X advertisers

Elon Musk and Andrew Ross Sorkin at the 2023 NYT DealBook Summit

(Image source: The New York Times)

The problems started almost as soon as Musk’s deal to buy Twitter closed. By November 2022, NPR reported that they’d lost 50 of their top 100 advertisers. By February, more than 500 of the top 1000 had left. Their concerns included impersonation, staff shake-ups, reinstating banned accounts, and more.

Amidst all this, Musk made efforts to stem the bleeding, including offering flashy deals for advertisers and, eventually, hiring Linda Yaccarino to take over as CEO.

But at the same time, he lashed out at those who’d left, threatening them with lawsuits and accusing them of “[hating] free speech in America.” This cycle continued throughout 2023.

Things took another turn in October when Musk personally endorsed an antisemitic tweet accusing “Jewish communities” of promoting “hatred against whites.” Musk has apologized, but has not deleted the endorsement.

This seems to have been the final straw for many major advertisers, including Disney and Apple. Musk seemed pessimistic at the NYT DealBook Summit, saying these advertisers would likely kill the company.

What marketers are saying

A tablet pen pointing at a steep drop on a chart

Marketing consultant Lou Paskalis told the New York Times that those who’ve left X won’t be returning. “There is no advertising value that would offset the reputational risk of going back on the platform.” 

Other outlets report the same. Companies feel that X advertising could stain their reputation—if not now, then the next time Musk starts a fire.

Penji is a leader in the design-as-a-service industry, offering creative services to businesses and agencies at a subscription rate. We spoke to Harper Goldman, a senior member of Penji’s marketing team, to get insight into how the marketing industry is responding.

“On the one hand,” she says, “of course the advertisers were going to leave. That’s the whole tension of the internet. The less rules you have, the less money you make.”

“On the other hand, Apple pulled out before, and then they came back. I don’t think any company’s actually faced blowback for advertising on Twitter—it’s still seen as a regular social network—so if there’s money to be made, they’ll probably be back.”

That raises the question: is there money to be made?

Is X advertising worth it in 2024?

X advertising social media apps

Look, in light of Musk’s statements, we’re not gonna tell you you should advertise on X. But there may be some upside.

When a majority of top advertisers leave a platform, it creates a lot of cheap inventory. CPMs for advertising on X have reportedly been slashed since Musk took over. The platform still gets a ton of traffic, so making use of it can be a way to stand out… if you want that kind of attention.

Here’s the thing: the downside of X isn’t just association with Musk. Musk’s takeover has led to a huge spike in stolen content and impersonation, which the dwindling moderation team struggles to keep up with.

As it becomes a less reputable platform, less reputable brands have flocked to it. This means that advertising on X can mean sharing space with sketchy brands, criminal activities, and yes, more bigotry than ever before.

The bottom line: Advertising on X is high risk. There are bound to be more controversies to come, and most advertisers would rather get out now than wait for the other shoe to drop. It can also be high reward, so it’s up to businesses to decide what risks they’re willing to take.

What other options do marketers have?

X advertising alternatives Penji page screenshot

“Twitter was never a huge part of our strategy,” Goldman admits. “Or a lot of our clients, for that matter. The reporting is not good, the targeting is not good, there’s a lack of control. And Facebook and Google have so much control and so much reporting that there’s really no contest.”

This is another piece of important context. Twitter wasn’t an important platform for most brands, and its appeal was always niche. While it’s a highly trafficked website, it wasn’t great for advertising to begin with.

At Penji, whose target audience is marketers and agencies, shakeups at X haven’t made much of a difference. “The only difference is that it’s in the news. People are talking about it. But that doesn’t mean they want to use it.”

Conversations around X have shifted from “Can Musk turn it around?” to “Can he control the damage?” The platform is still leaking brands and users, and people are starting to wonder how long it can stay afloat.

Our recommendation? The social media landscape is changing fast. Stay on top of new trends. There’s still money to be made in X advertising, for now. But don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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Technology

Top 10 Quality Wireless Lavaliers Under $300

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wireless lavalier

Wireless microphones are offered at different price points. But the question remains: do they live up to expectations? Whether you’re a content creator or a presenter, there are affordable options that can deliver crystal-clear audio without breaking the bank. Whatever your reason for buying, we’ve narrowed your options for the top 10 quality wireless lavaliers under $300.

1. Rode Wireless Go II

rode wireless go

The Rode Wireless GO II is a fantastic choice for great audio for independent filmmakers, vloggers, streamers, and other content creators. The Rode Wireless GO II’s innovative transmitters feature built-in omnidirectional microphones. You can use them as clip-on lav mics and as standard wireless transmitters with 1/8-inch mic inputs for your lavalier microphones. 

Since the receiver is ultra-compact, it easily clips to your camera strap or even your clothing. In other words, the Rode Wireless GO is the ideal single-channel wireless microphone system for on-the-go content creators.

Pricing: $199.00

2. Shure PGXD14/85-X8 

shure lavalier

The Shure PGXD14/85 wireless lavalier offers high-quality digital audio in a cost-effective and easy-to-use kit. Its portable tabletop receiver makes it excellently suitable for presenters, lecturers, fitness instructors, performers, and DJs working in small venues. 

The rugged bodypack transmitter easily clips onto a belt or guitar strap, providing a quality frequency range and up to 10 hours of continuous use. 

Pricing:  $208.01

3. Hollyland Lark Max 

hollyland lavalier

Hollyland Lark Max enables high-quality recording even in a loud environment. It has an Environmental Noise Canceling (ENC) system that effectively recognizes and reduces environmental noise while capturing low-frequency audio details. 

Lark Max is perfect for outdoor interviews and vlogging. No additional app is needed for this device, thanks to one-click recording. Each transmitter has an 8GB,14 hours duration internal audio recording, recording epic sound quality in uncompressed WAV files. 

Lark Max comes with all the accessories you need to connect with the camera, iPhone, Android, or PC, all in one and ready to go.

Pricing: $166.22

4. DJI Mic

dji mic lavalier

The DJI Mic is one of our best wireless mic systems on our list. It produces excellent recordings. Thanks to the charging case, its battery life is outstanding and worth the $48 price difference versus the Rode. DJI Mic is best for live streaming, vlogging, and outdoor recording scenarios, with a maximum transmission range of 250 meters in open spaces. 

You can enjoy 5.5 hours of battery life from the transmitters, 5 hours from the receiver, and a maximum of 15 hours with the charging case. With these awesome features, you’ll spend less time worrying about battery levels.

Pricing: $246.51

5. Pixel Voical Lark X

pixel voical lark lavalier

Pixel Voical Lark is a wireless system with two Lavalier mic transmitters, a receiver, and a portable charger box. 

This wireless Lavalier microphone system uses UHF tech to transmit the signal clearly and stably without latency. It can also enhance vitality and preserve your original sound.

You can connect your computer or smartphone to play music as the background audio and insert your earphones into the receiver for monitoring and input functions. This feature makes your live streams or video conferences more convenient.

Pixel Voical Lark X  wireless lavalier microphone is compatible with smartphones, iPads, DSLR cameras, laptops, and PA speakers. In addition, the mic can be used directly with YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for hassle-free video recording or live streaming. 

Pricing: $199.00

6. EMW Omnidirectional Lavalier

emw lavalier

The EMW, a globally loved lavalier, provides top-notch sound while minimizing unwanted noise from clothing. Its design is both stylish and sturdy, almost waterproof. 

The EMW Lavalier is consistently considered one of the best and most budget-friendly choices, essential for any audio setup. Whether you’re a news anchor, talk show guest, or involved in creating water sports documentaries and feature films, the Countryman EMW Lavaliers are always ready for action! 

If you are looking for a lavalier that’s great for hiding beneath clothing in film, theater, and TV production, the EMW microphone is a great choice.

Pricing: $204.24

7. PowerDeWise Wireless Lavalier Microphone for iPhone iPad 

powerdewise wireless lavalier

PowerDeWise wireless microphones for iPhone are excellent mini mics for video recording, vlogging, interviews, and more. In addition, the small wireless Lavalier microphones are easy to wear. Forget about getting tangled in cords again with this tiny microphone and seamless connectivity to your iOS device. 

Pricing: $33.33

8. BOYALINK Wireless Lavalier Microphone for Smartphone Camera

boyalink wireless lavalier

BOYALINK is a wireless microphone system for smartphones featuring dual 2.4G channels. With USB-C, Lightning, and 3.5mm TRS connectors, it’s the perfect solution for content creators seeking top-notch audio recording without the inconvenience of various connectors or adapters. 

The all-in-one storage design, dual-channel wireless technology, and user-friendly setup make BOYALINK the go-to option for those wanting to elevate their audio recording experience.

Pricing: $99.99

9. Razer Seiren BT 

person holding a phone

Razer Seiren BT is an excellent microphone and a perfect partner for streaming and vlogging. 

The Omnidirectional Microphone captures voice clearly from any direction, offering flexibility without constantly holding the mic in one position. Likewise, it features enhanced indoor and outdoor noise noise suppression to block out noise like strong winds or noisy crowds. 

Pricing: $95.99

10. Movo WMX-1

movo wireless lavalier

The Movo’s WMX-1 2.4GHz is a complete kit that can connect the wireless mic system to a DSLR, computer, or smartphone for less than $80. The kit includes cables compatible with the said devices and a quality lavalier microphone. 

The range between the transmitter and receiver is 200 feet. Another convenient feature is that you can listen to your audio in real-time with the headphone input, ensuring the sound recording is accurate. 

Movo MWX-1 suits independent filmmakers, vloggers, mobile journalists, and content creators.

Pricing: $79.95

Final Thoughts

In the era of content creation, wireless mic kits are becoming popular in the market. There are many options, so we narrowed your choices to quality wireless lavaliers. Rode is our Top 1 best overall pick with the Rode Wireless Go II. Its recording quality, range, and completeness allow content creators to record excellent audio across multiple platforms. It is indeed a value for your money! 

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