Bluesky is emerging as a breath of fresh air but is it really fresh? or just a Twitter clone? Unlike X, which seems to change its name and direction every few months, Bluesky is focused on what really matters: decentralization and user control. Founded in 2019 by Jack Dorsey (yes, the same guy who gave us Twitter – now X) and led by Lantian “Jay” Graber since 2021, Bluesky is quickly gaining attention. And not for constantly rebranding, but for its commitment to open-source development and creating a platform where users actually have a say.
What is Bluesky?
Bluesky is a microblogging service much like Twitter (X), where users can share short text posts, images, and videos. But here’s the twist: it’s built around decentralization, user autonomy, and transparency. Instead of relying on a centralized server, Bluesky uses the AT Protocol, which allows independent servers to host the platform. This unique setup makes Bluesky more resistant to censorship and control by any single entity, giving users more freedom in how they engage with the platform.
Let’s look at what Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is saying about the X app.
People are leaving Twitter because it’s not fun anymore and no one is obligated to be on a platform they don’t enjoy. It’s not rocket science.— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@aoc.bsky.social) December 2, 2024 at 10:33 AM
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Key Features of Bluesky
Decentralization
Bluesky’s key selling point is decentralization, which makes the platform more resilient to control. With the AT Protocol, Bluesky allows a network of servers to host its content, meaning no one company or organization holds all the power. This creates a space where people can speak freely, without the fear of censorship or being manipulated by corporate interests.
User Control
One of Bluesky’s standout features is the level of control it gives users. Unlike platforms where users have limited influence over their content and timelines, Bluesky offers several ways to personalize the experience.
- Customizable Timelines: Users can follow specific accounts, join feeds based on their interests or location, and even filter content to exclude sensitive or irrelevant posts.
- Content Control: Users get to decide who can reply to their posts—whether everyone, just followers, or no one at all. Plus, the ability to delete or edit posts lets users maintain full control over their content.
Open-Source Development
Bluesky operates with full transparency. Its open-source nature means the code is publicly available for anyone to view and contribute to. This openness builds trust and fosters a collaborative community of developers who help shape the platform’s future.
Skeets: A New Term for Posts
While Bluesky is similar to Twitter in many ways, it has its own quirks. Posts are called “skeets” (a playful mix of “sky” and “tweets”). Despite CEO Jay Graber’s disapproval of the term, it’s caught on among the platform’s active users, adding a bit of fun to the experience.
Bluesky’s Growth and Popularity
As of December 2024, Bluesky has seen impressive growth, with 23.8 million total registered users. It also boasts 1 to 10 million daily active users worldwide, signaling strong adoption. This growth is especially noticeable among those looking for a social media alternative where user control and privacy take priority.
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Look and feel similar to X (twitter)
When I signed up on the Bluesky app, I though I will get a fresh experience but it’s almost identical to the X app’s interface. It’s so identical that if you ask people to differentiate between the Bluesky and X’s user interface, most of them would get this wrong. (Check the screenshot below)
A Social Network That Puts Freedom and Privacy First
Bluesky represents a fresh approach to social networking. By putting users in charge of their content, letting them personalize their feeds, and offering a decentralized structure, Bluesky is carving out its own space in the crowded social media landscape. It’s a move towards more personalized, user-driven online communities.
With rising concerns about data privacy, content control, and corporate influence, Bluesky’s approach might just be the answer to what people want from social media in the future. By staying decentralized and open-source, Bluesky is focused on freedom and transparency, rather than profit-driven motives. As its user base continues to expand and its development team strengthens, Bluesky has the potential to become a major player in the social media world, one that truly puts users first.
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Conclusion
Bluesky’s innovative features like decentralization, user control, and open-source transparency set it apart as a promising new player in the social media space. As the platform continues to grow, it will be fascinating to see how it stacks up against the likes of Twitter (X) and other platforms, and whether it can live up to its promise of creating a more democratic, user-centric digital world.
