Bluesky, a new social media app developed by Twitter’s former CEO Jack Dorsey, is gaining traction as a decentralized alternative to Twitter. With a striking resemblance to its predecessor in terms of design and user interface, Bluesky sets itself apart by operating on a decentralized network.
This unique approach grants users greater control over the platform’s operations, data storage, and content moderation. As high-profile users, journalists, politicians, and celebrities join the app, Bluesky’s potential as a competitive player in the social media landscape is garnering attention.
Bluesky: A New Microblogging Social Network
Bluesky defines itself as a “new social network for microblogging.” Users can post and follow short updates on a timeline, reminiscent of Twitter.
Nevertheless, significant distinctions exist between the two platforms. Currently, Bluesky does not feature hashtags, a central element on Twitter, and lacks direct messaging functionality. While Bluesky was developed independently from Twitter, it received funding from the company until it became an independent organization in February 2022.
Dorsey has expressed his intention to build an inclusive community around Bluesky, involving companies, organizations, researchers, and civil society leaders.
Appeal to Frustrated Twitter Users
Bluesky has attracted users dissatisfied with the direction Twitter has taken under its new owner, Elon Musk. Musk’s controversial changes, such as the removal of blue checkmarks from prominent users, have contributed to the migration of influential figures to Bluesky. Notably, Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, model Chrissy Teigen, and the 90s band Eve 6 have joined the app.
According to data from data.ai, Bluesky has been downloaded over 375,000 times on the Apple App Store and over 100,000 times on the Google Play Store, indicating growing interest in the alternative platform.
Decentralization and User Choice
Bluesky’s decentralized network is a significant departure from Twitter’s centralized model. By operating on a decentralized network, Bluesky empowers users by providing them with more control over the platform.
They have greater say in how the service is run, how data is stored, and how content is moderated. This shift toward decentralization aligns with a growing desire among social media users for increased privacy protection, data portability, and more effective content moderation.
Mark Bartholomew, a professor at the University at Buffalo School of Law, believes the early adoption of Bluesky reflects a positive trend in offering users more choices in their online experiences.
Exclusivity and Invitation-only Access
Currently, Bluesky remains an invite-only platform as it continues to develop and refine its network. Existing users receive one invitation code to share with others every two weeks. This exclusivity has only heightened the excitement surrounding Bluesky, with users comparing invitation codes to coveted blue checkmarks on Twitter. As more users join and share their experiences, the app’s staying power and potential impact on the social media landscape will become clearer.
As prominent figures from various fields join the platform and its user base continues to grow, Bluesky’s potential to challenge established social media platforms becomes more evident. By embracing decentralization and offering users greater choice and control, Bluesky represents a step toward a more diverse and inclusive social media ecosystem.
