In recent months, we have seen how more and more users are looking for alternatives to the famous social network Twitter, Now known as X. Among the main alternatives that are gaining notoriety lately we find Bluesky, an interesting bet that has also been developed by one of the co-founders of the blue bird platform, Jack Dorsey. This project is taking on special relevance in recent weeks, partly due to the healthier environment it promises and, on the other hand, due to the measures it is implementing to avoid serious problems that affect X, such as misinformation or hate messages.
What is Bluesky?
Bluesky is a microblogging network which allows users to post short messages, ideal for those looking for an alternative to the familiar interface of the former Twitter. Although the platform began in 2019 as a project within X itself, it was launched independently in 2021. Today, it has established itself as a social network decentralized which has a completely different approach to traditional social networks by offering more autonomy to users.
Instead of relying on a centralized company that controls algorithms and moderation, Bluesky It is based on the 'Authenticated Transfer Protocol', a protocol that will allow different applications to interact with each other, giving them the ability to customize their own moderation systems, algorithms, and other functionalities. This means that users will be able to migrate between different instances or servers without losing their data or connections.
This network is still in the process of expansion, but has shown significant growth after recent events that considerably increased the outflow of X users.
Key Features of Bluesky
One of the great advantages of this social network is that its The interface is clean and very similar to Twitter's., designing the user experience in a way that is familiar to migrants from platforms like X. It is ideal for those who are used to browsing more traditional networks, but are looking for more granular control over what they see and how they interact with other users.
The algorithm system in Bluesky is fully customizableUsers have the option to install different feeds and create their own filters. For example, there is a feed designed especially for viewing Spanish-language posts called 'Bluesky Ñ'. This level of customization goes far beyond what platforms like X or Threads offer, and focuses on giving users the power to decide what type of content they want to consume.
In addition, Bluesky allows the same interactions that are done in X: you can Like, share, quote posts or reply to other users.
How to register on Bluesky
The process to join Bluesky is very simple, and although it was initially only accessible by invitation, since February 2024 the platform is open to the general public. All you need to do is download the application from the official stores to iOS or Android or access it through their web client at bsky.app. Once you have downloaded the app, you will need to create an account using your email, set a password and provide some details such as your date of birth.
Creating an account is completely free., and once inside, you will be asked to personalize your profile by choosing topics that interest you or following relevant accounts. Additionally, you can select what type of feed you prefer to see, such as posts from users you follow or the best posts from the last 24 hours, among other options.
How to interact on the platform
The operation of Bluesky is quite similar to what we already knew in previous networks. You can follow accounts, like, share posts and even participate in conversations by quoting other posts. One interesting quirk is that users can choose who can reply to their posts, which adds an extra level of control over interactions.
To publish, you just have to click on “New Post”, write your content, and if you want, add images or mention other users. This makes the experience to create and share is very similar to what many already know, but with the added benefit of greater control over how people interact with your content.
Advantages of Bluesky over other social networks
So far, Bluesky has proven to be a viable alternative to X for those looking for a cleaner environment, without the chaos of algorithms that prioritize negative content or fake news. In fact, this has been one of the key factors that has driven many migrations to this platform, especially by journalists, artists and users who seek to do their work without being disturbed by trolls or toxic speeches.
Another of its key advantages includes, as we already indicated, the decentralization, making it easier for users to maintain control over their data and how their personal information is handled.
Not to mention the possibility of create custom algorithmsOn many social networks, the content we see is determined by a centralized algorithm that does not always reflect our interests, but rather prioritizes topics that are likely to generate more interactions. At Bluesky, users have the freedom to install customized feeds that suit their needs and preferences.
In addition to a simple interface and no advertising.
Current limitations
As you might expect with an emerging platform, there are still some features that Bluesky needs to improve. For example, the platform does not yet offer the ability to upload videos or use hashtags, two features that are key for many people who want to interact more actively on social networks.
Another aspect that could be improved is the lack of analytics, as there is currently no section that allows you to view detailed statistics on the performance of your posts. However, it is important to note that the platform is constantly evolving, and it is likely that these tools will eventually be integrated in future updates.
Although it has seen significant growth in terms of user numbers, it has yet to reach the critical mass that could make it a real alternative to giants like X or Threads. However, it could be just a matter of time before Bluesky manages to capture the attention of a larger audience.
Bluesky has managed to position itself as a promising option and although it lacks some basic features such as uploading videos and the use of analytics, the constant evolution of the platform predicts that more functionalities will soon be implemented that will further improve the user experience.