Threads Overtakes X in Global Mobile Usage

Meta's Threads has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing rival platform X in daily mobile users globally. This shift marks a pivotal moment in the social media landscape after nearly three years of competition.

According to recent data, Threads now attracts more daily active users on mobile devices worldwide, signaling a change in user preferences and platform momentum.

The data reveals a clear shift in user engagement. As of January 7th, Threads recorded 141.5 million daily active users on iOS and Android globally. This figure represents a substantial lead over X, which reported 125 million daily active mobile users during the same period.

The gap between the two platforms has been narrowing consistently over recent months. This growth trajectory indicates a steady migration of user attention rather than a temporary fluctuation.

Key metrics from the data include:

• Threads: 141.5 million daily active mobile users
• X: 125 million daily active mobile users
• Global measurement across iOS and Android platforms
• As of January 7th, 2026

The overtaking did not happen overnight. Analysis indicates that Threads surpassed X sometime between late October and early November. This timing is crucial as it demonstrates the growth was not a reaction to recent controversies surrounding X's Grok AI integration.

Instead, the data points to a consistent period of growth for Threads. This sustained momentum suggests a fundamental shift in user behavior rather than a temporary response to external events.

Launched almost three years ago, Threads has been steadily building its user base. The platform's recent performance indicates it has reached a critical mass where its growth becomes self-reinforcing.

While the global picture shows Threads in the lead, the situation varies by region. In the United States, X still maintains a lead in mobile users. This regional distinction highlights the different adoption patterns across markets.

The US market often follows different trends compared to global averages. X's continued strength in this key market suggests it retains a strong foothold with American users despite the global shift.

This regional variation indicates that the social media landscape remains dynamic. Different platforms may continue to dominate specific markets while others lead globally.

This milestone carries significant implications for the social media ecosystem. Meta's Threads has successfully challenged X's dominance in a relatively short timeframe. The achievement demonstrates that established platforms can leverage existing networks to rapidly gain traction.

The competition between these platforms benefits users through innovation and feature development. Both companies are likely to accelerate their product roadmaps in response to this shifting landscape.

For advertisers and content creators, this development offers new opportunities. A more balanced market provides additional options for reaching audiences and diversifying platform strategies.

The social media landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Threads' global lead represents a significant moment, but the competition remains fierce. Both platforms will likely continue to innovate and compete for user attention.

Key factors to watch include:

• US market dynamics and whether Threads can challenge X's lead
• Feature development and platform innovations
• User engagement metrics beyond daily active counts
• Monetization strategies for both platforms

This milestone marks just one chapter in the ongoing evolution of social media. The coming months will reveal whether Threads can maintain its lead and how X will respond to this challenge.