Bluesky, a Twitter-like social platform, has been gaining traction as an alternative to Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter). With over 16 million users as of the latest count, Bluesky has seen significant growth, especially following the U.S. presidential election. As Musk’s decisions — from modifying user blocking to enabling AI data training on user content — spark dissatisfaction among X users, many are exploring other options.
The Big Players: X, Threads, and Bluesky
Despite Musk’s changes, X remains the leading platform in terms of monthly active users, although Meta’s Threads is rapidly closing in. In November alone, Threads grew by over 15 million users, pushing its active user count to approximately 275 million. However, Threads represents a Big Tech alternative, whereas Bluesky is more independent and is often seen as the “indie” choice for those seeking a decentralized experience. Mastodon, another decentralized competitor, currently has 7.6 million users, although less than a million log in regularly. The broader fediverse, based on the ActivityPub protocol, has 10.8 million users.
Bluesky’s unique structure enables greater user control over data through a federation system, which allows users to host their data independently. This feature, a significant departure from the centralized model used by X and Threads, is powered by Bluesky’s AT protocol rather than Mastodon’s ActivityPub. Notably, Bluesky’s design ensures that users’ server choices do not limit the content they can see.
The Rise in Deactivations on X
X’s user base is still substantial, but it is increasingly impacted by a trend of deactivations. Analytics from Similarweb reveal a spike in deactivations, with the most recent high on Wednesday when 115,000 U.S. web users deactivated their accounts — the largest single-day deactivation count since Musk’s acquisition of Twitter. Although Similarweb’s data only includes web users, the overall trend suggests that dissatisfaction with Musk’s X policies continues to grow.
Getting Started on Bluesky
For those curious about joining, signing up for Bluesky is simple. The process includes creating an account on bsky.app or downloading the app for iOS or Android. While users start with a Bluesky username ending in “bsky.social,” the AT protocol allows for custom domain names, adding a professional touch. The platform also offers a site to help users find custom domains, generating revenue for the otherwise free service.
For users seeking more flexibility, Bluesky also supports third-party apps like Skeets, Graysky, and cross-platform apps like Croissant and Openvibe, which offer a range of unique user experiences. Bluesky’s web app, Skyfeed, is a popular choice for those who prefer a column-based layout reminiscent of X Pro (formerly TweetDeck).
Customizing Feeds and Following on Bluesky
Unlike X and Threads, Bluesky allows users to exercise extensive control over their feeds and algorithms. Bluesky offers over 40,000 different feeds, ranging from specific interests like science and art to community-centered options such as Blacksky, which caters to Black Twitter users looking for a new home. Users can personalize their experience by building custom feeds, following others’ feeds, or using popular options like Bluesky’s Discover feed.
Personalizing the Following Feed
Users can further tailor their feeds to control visibility of specific post types, like replies, reposts, and quotes. Additionally, Bluesky’s “Starter Packs” feature helps new users build their following lists by suggesting curated lists of accounts to follow, similar to X’s Suggested User List. Bluesky Directory, a third-party site, organizes these packs by categories like tech, politics, sports, and health, ensuring users can find their community right from the start.
Connecting with Friends from X
Though Bluesky currently lacks a built-in feature to import followers from X, the third-party Sky Follower Bridge Chrome extension helps users locate and follow their X contacts who have joined Bluesky. This tool scans users’ follower and following lists, making it easier to find and follow familiar accounts on Bluesky.
Moderation and Independent Control
Bluesky’s moderation approach diverges from the centralized control seen on X and Threads. It offers users the freedom to self-manage their feeds by blocking, muting, and subscribing to block or mute lists. Bluesky even allows independent developers to create moderation services, such as Ozone, which users can subscribe to for customized filtering.
Block and mute lists are also user-created, and a simple search can reveal lists to block far-right or MAGA groups — a popular option for users who wish to avoid certain political views. Independent moderation services like XBlock Screenshot Labeller and News Detective also enhance moderation. Users can hide unwanted screenshots or even receive community-sourced fact-checking on posts, expanding their control over content accuracy and safety.
For those seeking complete autonomy, Bluesky supports self-hosting, allowing tech-savvy users to run their own servers and communities. Although this option requires technical expertise, it aligns with Bluesky’s mission of offering decentralized, user-driven social networking.
Engaging on Bluesky
Bluesky’s culture, often described as “vibey,” encourages users to interact with one another through regular posts, comments, and hashtags. Unlike Threads, Bluesky sticks to traditional hashtags, enabling users to search for topics or communities, like #BlackSky or #TechNews. This tagging system promotes discovery and connection among users with shared interests.
A Look Ahead
Bluesky’s success in creating a decentralized, user-centered platform shows the growing demand for alternatives to mainstream social networks. Though it currently lacks trending topics, which may detract from its real-time appeal, Bluesky remains an attractive option for users tired of the top-down moderation seen on platforms like X and Threads.
In time, Bluesky’s model could represent a new era in social networking. For now, it remains a refreshing choice for users who want control over their online experience and community interactions.
