Meta
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Threads Explores In-Message Games
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Threads is experimenting with in-message games, starting with a basketball game prototype that allows users to swipe and shoot virtual hoops. This feature, not yet public, was discovered by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi and aims to enhance user engagement by letting friends compete in scoring baskets. Such games could provide Threads with a competitive advantage over platforms like X and Bluesky, which lack built-in games, and help it rival Apple's Messages that supports third-party gaming apps. While the rollout of this feature is uncertain, it reflects Meta's strategy to enrich Threads with new functionalities to attract more users and compete with major social media platforms. This matters because integrating games into messaging apps could significantly boost user interaction and retention, setting Threads apart in a crowded social media landscape.
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Meta Delays Ray-Ban Display Global Launch
Read Full Article: Meta Delays Ray-Ban Display Global Launch
Meta has decided to delay the international launch of its Ray-Ban Display smart glasses in countries like France, Italy, Canada, and the UK until after early 2026 due to overwhelming demand and limited inventory. Since their release last fall, the glasses have generated significant interest, leading to extended waitlists that now stretch well into 2026. Meta plans to prioritize fulfilling orders within the US while reassessing its strategy for international distribution. The delay is likely to be disappointing for international customers, especially given the positive reviews, such as The Verge's Victoria Song describing them as the best smart glasses she has tried. This matters because it highlights the challenges companies face in meeting global demand for innovative tech products.