Bluesky: A New Social Media App with a Familiar Look
Bluesky is the latest project from Twitter’s co-founder, Jack Dorsey, and it’s quickly gaining attention. Though it looks a lot like Twitter—with similar profiles, timelines, and colors—Bluesky is very different underneath. Built on a decentralized network, it gives users more control over their data and content, unlike traditional platforms like Twitter.
How Bluesky is Different
Bluesky launched in a closed beta on iOS in February and recently on Android. Right now, it’s invite-only, which adds a feeling of exclusivity. While it has some similarities to Twitter, Bluesky skips features like hashtags and direct messages, focusing on simple, short posts.
Dorsey developed Bluesky independently, though Twitter funded it until 2022. His goal was to build a platform that couldn’t be controlled by any single company or government. This decentralized approach means that users have more say in how the app operates, a key difference from Twitter.
Why Are People Joining Bluesky?
Bluesky is attracting people, including journalists, politicians, and celebrities, who are unhappy with recent changes at Twitter under Elon Musk. Since Musk’s takeover, Twitter has removed blue checkmarks and made other controversial updates, causing some users to seek alternatives. Bluesky has become popular among notable users like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, model Chrissy Teigen, and the band Eve 6. Its demand continues to grow, with more than 375,000 downloads on Apple’s App Store and a growing Android user base.
Can Bluesky Last?
It’s hard to say if Bluesky will keep its popularity or lose momentum, like other Twitter alternatives. However, experts believe Bluesky’s entry could be good for users, giving them more choices in social media. Professor Mark Bartholomew from the University at Buffalo says that more competition might encourage platforms to improve user privacy, portability, and content moderation.
With its decentralized setup, Bluesky offers a unique, user-controlled experience that may appeal to those tired of traditional social platforms. As Bartholomew puts it, “competition might actually help users find the product features they want.”
How Can You Join Bluesky?
Right now, Bluesky is only available by invite. Users get one invite code every two weeks to share, which has only increased interest. As the band Eve 6 tweeted, “Bluesky invite codes are the new blue check.”
If Bluesky continues to grow, it could become a new gathering place for people looking for something different from traditional social media. Its unique features, decentralized design, and growing popularity hint at an exciting new way for people to connect online.
