Amid the changing dynamics of social media, a notable shift sees users migrating to Bluesky, a platform originating from the former Twitter, now under different ownership.
Bluesky has seen a notable rise in user numbers as individuals look for alternatives to X, previously known as Twitter. This shift gained momentum after the platform opened to the public in February. Its early invite-only phase allowed for crucial developments in moderation tools and other functionalities, preparing it for a broader audience.
In mid-November, Bluesky reported a user base increase to 15 million, a jump from the 13 million in late October. This comes as some users leave X, especially after the platform allowed blocked accounts to view public posts, prompting some to seek new environments for online interaction.
Journalists, politicians, and celebrities have been moving to Bluesky, attracted by its absence of ads and hate speech, reminiscent of Twitter’s early days. They engage in meme sharing and discussions, finding comfort in a space that feels less hostile and commercialized than X.
Interestingly, Bluesky witnessed a significant boost following X’s ban in Brazil in August, gaining 2.6 million users in just a week, with a large proportion hailing from Brazil. These shifts emphasize the desire for a platform that feels fresh yet familiar, a sentiment echoed by many new adoptees.
While Bluesky’s primary function resembles other social networks with feeds and direct messaging, its ambitions surpass merely replacing X. The platform is developing a “protocol for public conversation” to allow interoperability across various social media platforms, akin to how email and phone systems operate today.
Currently, users of significant platforms like Twitter and TikTok face barriers when attempting to interact across networks. Bluesky envisions a future where such walls are dismantled, encouraging a more unified digital communication landscape. This vision challenges the traditional models upheld by major tech companies that rely heavily on isolated user bases for advertising purposes.
As Bluesky continues to grow, its approach to creating an interconnected online environment suggests a shift in how social media might evolve. By embracing interoperability, Bluesky sets itself apart, attracting users seeking novelty and community.
Source: News4jax
