A new social media app launched recently and I got to thinking how little I understand the machinations of how any of them work. When it comes to these constantly evolving or new apps, I'm not “Smarter Than A Fifth Grader.” (I know it's an old reference; so am I, ha ha!)
According to my 'research,' there are 43 social media apps, but only one in which I'm semi-competent (Facebook).
I've downloaded and subsequently deleted several of the latest apps. It seemed too much trouble trying to figure them out. Could it be because I give up easily? Probably.
Most were downloaded because something popped up showing someone I know. Nothing's worse than listening to people talk about something they've seen on an app I don't have. Let's put it this way–I'm hopeless.
Apps I've downloaded so far include Parler, Instagram, MeWe, TikTok, Twitter, FreeSpace, Truth Social, Snap Chat, Facebook and the newest–Threads. For the life of me, I cannot figure out how to use any of the other apps. On most of them, all I see are posts from total strangers. I'm not interested in acquiring any new 'imaginary' friends.
Since I'm not one who hops on board the latest technology right away after signing up for Instagram seven years ago, I haven't used it except to see what my family and friends posted. One post every seven years sounds about right, dontcha think? Ha Ha!
I will watch Instagram to see the latest videos posted by friends and family. Can someone explain how I acquired 127 followers when I have posted ONE picture, seven years ago, of David, me, and a Christian lady comedian who was hilarious, enlightening, and inspiring? Those 127 followers must be extremely bored.
Anyway, Threads looks like an app even a non-techie like me can use. Someone described it as a cross between Facebook and Twitter. If it's not more Facebook than Twitter, I'm doomed.
Thread transfers all your account information and you're done. It looks like an app I may be able to use; almost as easy as using Facebook. .
One app I don't think I'll ever get the hang of is Snapchat. I downloaded it when it first came out and I never used it so I deleted it. The other day I reloaded it. I don't have the foggiest idea why. The only way I'd ever do a video on any would be if I could hold up a mask, a la Judy Jetson.
Those Jetsons had the right idea. I'd love a mask to hold up to FaceTime since I hate looking at myself .
I'd love a mask of my much younger self to hold in front of the phone. My younger head on Sofia Vergara's body.
But back to social media apps.
Does anyone know of a group for clueless senior citizens that could teach me how to work the apps I have before any more new ones are launched? I'd ask my grandkids for help but I have a reputation of competence to uphold. What they don't know won't hurt me.