A new social media platform is here amongst us and lo and behold! Already 1 million new users have joined this platform called Bluesky. But what is this social media site all about and is it worth joining? Read along as we answer some of your questions about this new platform.
It’s been nearly two years since Elon Musk purchased the platform Twitter and later named it X. With all the changes that the new management for Twitter offered its users, many were left dejected and heartbroken, resulting in a decline in the number of users on the app. Since then, many similar platforms have emerged to serve the purpose and so far, only Threads by Meta has been able to witness massive growth. But it’s not the only one. Enter Bluesky!
After being an invite-only app for nearly one year. Bluesky finally opened up for all in February 2024. As it did, it gained nearly 800,00 new users. As of November 2024, Bluesky has over 16 million users.
What is Bluesky?
Bluesky is a decentralised social media platform that aims to change the way we connect and share online. It has been developed as an alternative to traditional social platforms and is built on the Authenticated Transfer Protocol (AT Protocol). AT Protocol is an open-source framework. It allows us to have more control over our data and the experiences we have online.
Unlike mainstream platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky’s decentralised approach makes sure that no single entity has full control of the platform. With that comes greater privacy, freedom of expression as well as transparency. These are the qualities that are often missing in centralised networks.
How Does it Work?
Operating on the AT Protocol, it allows interoperability between different social media platforms. You can think of it as an ecosystem where users can interact seamlessly across apps that share this protocol. This means you can maintain your profile, followers, and posts across multiple platforms, giving you unprecedented portability and ownership over your online presence.
Moreover, Bluesky employs algorithms that put the user in the driver’s seat. You get to decide what content you want to see and how it is filtered, ensuring a personalised experience tailored to your interests.
Key Features
- Decentralisation: The core of Bluesky’s appeal is its decentralised nature. This model reduces the risk of censorship and monopolistic control.
- User Control: Bluesky empowers users to control their data, offering transparency on how information is used and shared.
- Invite-Only Origins: While it initially launched as an invite-only app, this exclusivity helped it build a strong, engaged user base before opening up to the public.
- Content Moderation Options: Bluesky provides users with tools to customise their feeds and moderate content based on personal preferences.
- Open-Source Framework: Developers can create new apps and features on the AT Protocol, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Is it Worth Joining?
The decision to join Bluesky depends on what you value in a social media platform. If privacy, data control, and a user-centric experience are what you’re looking for, Bluesky can be the answer. It is especially fancy for those who are bored of commercialised and algorithm-driven apps.
However, since it’s still new, Bluesky has some challenges to address. It includes scalability, diversity of content, and having a robust user base to compete with the giants.
How to Join
Bluesky is no longer invite-only. One can simply sign up, create a profile, and start connecting with others.
The Future
With over 16 million users as of November 2024, Bluesky is gaining momentum. Its model could set a precedent for the future of social media. While it’s too early to decide, Bluesky is surely worth keeping an eye on.
