What is Bluesky? How It’s Winning Over Former X Users

Bluesky is quickly becoming a favored alternative to X (formerly known as Twitter), attracting millions of new users.

Since the recent US elections, more than 1 million users have joined Bluesky, driven by dissatisfaction with X’s handling of misinformation and extremism.

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky is a social media platform where users can post, reply, and message others, similar to X. As of November 2024, it has about 16.7 million users, a significant increase from 9 million in September 2024. Users appreciate its cleaner interface and the ability to customize their feeds.

How Did Bluesky Start?

Bluesky originated as a project within Twitter in 2019. Jack Dorsey, who was then CEO of Twitter, aimed to create an “open and decentralized” social media standard. In 2021, Bluesky became an independent company with Jay Graber as its CEO.

What Makes Bluesky Different from X?

Bluesky’s main appeal lies in its decentralized structure, which allows users more control over their data and interactions.

Unlike X, where the company manages everything centrally, Bluesky lets users choose how they want to see content. For example, users can select algorithms that prioritize posts from friends or specific topics.

How Does Bluesky Address Toxicity?

Bluesky emphasizes features that reduce toxicity. For instance, it allows users to separate original posts from quote posts, minimizing unwanted interactions. This contrasts with X’s approach, which has seen increased toxicity due to relaxed user controls.

Why Are People Leaving X for Bluesky?

Many users express frustration with X under Elon Musk’s ownership. They cite rising misinformation and bot activity as major concerns. Events like X’s suspension in Brazil and changes to its blocking feature have prompted many to seek a better experience on Bluesky.

Who is Using Bluesky?

Bluesky has attracted various public figures and celebrities, including UK MPs Jess Phillips and Layla Moran, as well as Jamie Lee Curtis and comedian Dara Ó Briain. This influx of notable users highlights the platform’s growing popularity.

In summary, Bluesky’s rapid growth reflects a desire for a social media experience that prioritizes user control and minimizes exposure to harmful content. As more individuals leave X for this alternative, the platform continues to evolve and attract new audiences.