Bluesky, the latest decentralized social media platform, is gaining popularity and expanding its user base rapidly. Conceptualized by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, Bluesky aims to provide a more open, user-controlled alternative to traditional social networks.
A Familiar Layout with a Decentralized Twist
Bluesky looks and feels like Twitter, focusing on short posts and real-time updates. However, it runs on a decentralized framework, giving users more transparency and control.
What Makes Bluesky Different?
Bluesky operates on the AT Protocol, an open-source technology. Unlike centralized platforms like Twitter, Bluesky doesn’t rely on a single company’s infrastructure. Instead, it uses a federated model, where multiple independent communities coexist. This setup allows users to control their data and lets developers create their own social networks using the same protocol.
Jack Dorsey first introduced Bluesky in 2019, aiming to set a decentralized standard for social media. Initially, it worked under Twitter, but after Elon Musk acquired Twitter in 2022, Bluesky became an independent platform.
How Does Bluesky Work?
Bluesky’s interface is user-friendly. Once you sign up, you get a handle like @username.bsky.social. You can customize your profile with a display name, bio, and profile picture. Posts, called “blues,” are capped at 256 characters and can include images or links. Users can like, share, comment on posts, or report inappropriate content. Blocking is also an option.
The timeline includes two main sections:
- Home Feed: Shows posts from people you follow.
- Discover Feed: Suggests content based on your interests.
New users get a “Starter Pack” with recommended accounts and content to follow.
Who is Using Bluesky?
Since its 2021 launch, millions of users have joined, including public figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Mark Cuban, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. News outlets like Bloomberg and The Washington Post are also active on the platform. As of mid-2024, even world leaders are joining Bluesky.
Key Features and Differences from X (Formerly Twitter)
Bluesky offers features like posts, likes, and shares, similar to Twitter. However, it stands out with its decentralized setup, meaning no single entity controls the platform. Users can also customize their feeds with personalized algorithms.
Bluesky’s moderation and privacy tools differ from X. The block feature fully prevents blocked users from engaging with your posts. The platform also combats misinformation by flagging misleading content.
Direct messaging now includes one-on-one chats, and Bluesky recently introduced “Ozone,” a tool for setting up personalized moderation services. Group chats are not yet available.
How is Bluesky Monetized?
Bluesky is free to use, but its team is exploring non-traditional revenue models. In 2023, it launched a paid service for custom domain names. By November 2024, Bluesky raised $15 million in Series A funding and plans to offer premium subscription features like high-quality video uploads and enhanced profile customization.
Security and Customization
Bluesky prioritizes security with email verification and gives users the option to opt out of public indexing for their posts. It’s also highly customizable, allowing users to create interest-based feeds and integrate custom algorithms.
What’s Next for Bluesky?
As of 2024, Bluesky is steadily growing, with regular updates and new features. Its decentralized model offers a refreshing alternative to traditional social networks, focusing on user control, transparency, and privacy. Bluesky could play a major role in shaping the future of social media.
