What Makes Bluesky Different?
A Decentralized Model
Bluesky’s standout feature is its decentralization. Unlike traditional platforms, it allows users to host their data on private servers, offering them more control. Though most users currently use “.bsky.social” usernames, the option for personalized domains sets Bluesky apart from its competitors.
A Familiar Look and Feel
Bluesky’s interface feels like a throwback to what X (formerly Twitter) used to be. With features like posting, commenting, and reposting, it provides a seamless transition for users seeking an alternative platform.
Who Owns Bluesky?
Bluesky was conceptualized by Jack Dorsey, the former head of Twitter, as a decentralized version of his previous platform. Although Dorsey has since stepped away, the platform is now managed by CEO Jay Graber and operates as a public benefit corporation. This shift in leadership reflects its commitment to being an independent, user-focused platform.
Why Is Bluesky Gaining Popularity?
Political and Social Shifts
The spike in new users, with over one million sign-ups per day, coincides with recent political events, including Donald Trump’s election victory and Elon Musk’s increased involvement in US politics. Many users are leaving X due to these developments, as well as concerns over X’s toxic environment, as cited by organizations like The Guardian.
Celebrity Endorsements
High-profile figures like Lizzo, Ben Stiller, and Jamie Lee Curtis have joined Bluesky, amplifying its appeal. The platform’s growing visibility has also earned it the top spot as the most downloaded free app in the UK Apple App Store.
How Does Bluesky Make Money?
Bluesky currently relies on venture capital funding, but as its user base grows, it will need sustainable revenue streams. Unlike traditional platforms that depend on advertising, Bluesky plans to offer paid services, such as custom domains for usernames.
For example, instead of using “@username.bsky.social,” users could purchase a more professional-looking domain like “@username.company.com.” This personalization doubles as a verification tool, enhancing user trust and engagement.
If advertising remains off the table, Bluesky may explore subscription-based features to cover operational costs. This approach reflects the challenges faced by startups in achieving profitability, as seen with Twitter, which only turned a profit twice before being acquired by Musk.
The Future of Bluesky
The Bluesky social media platform is rapidly evolving, but it faces challenges in sustaining its growth and monetization. While it is still a long way from rivaling X’s hundreds of millions of daily users, its innovative approach and growing community signal a promising future.
As more users seek alternatives to mainstream platforms, Bluesky’s decentralized, user-first model could redefine the social media landscape.
External Link: BBC
Internal Link: Kenkou Land
