STORY: Meta is exploring an idea which could create a direct competitor to Twitter.

It could set up a standalone decentralized social network to share text updates.

A Meta spokesperson said Friday (March 10) they believe there is an opportunity for a 'separate space'.

They said it would allow creators and public figures to share timely updates about their interests.

The news was first reported by Indian business site Moneycontrol.com, which said the new app would support ActivityPub.

That is the decentralized social networking protocol that powers Twitter-rival Mastodon.

Decentralized platforms are installed on thousands of computer servers.

They are largely run by volunteers who join their systems together in a federation.

Whereas Facebook and Elon Musk's Twitter are controlled by one authority.

Moneycontrol reported Meta's new app would be Instagram-branded.

It would also allow users to register or login through their Instagram credentials.