Bluesky Social is a decentralized social media platform that offers an alternative to traditional networks like Twitter (now X). It was originally conceptualized by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and launched independently in 2021. Unlike centralized social networks, Bluesky operates on an open-source framework called the AT Protocol, which allows transparency in how the platform is built and lets users have more control over their experience and data. Key features of Bluesky Social include:
- Users can share short posts with text, images, and videos (up to 300 characters).
- It supports interactions such as replying, reposting, quoting posts, and liking.
- The platform is decentralized, meaning users can host their data on servers other than those owned by Bluesky itself.
- Users can choose custom algorithmic feeds and moderation services, enabling a personalized experience.
- Bluesky includes a "marketplace of algorithms" where users can select or create custom feeds.
- It offers a unique domain-name-based handle system for account verification, replacing traditional "blue check" systems.
- The platform started as invite-only but has seen rapid user growth and currently has millions of users.
- It appeals to communities seeking alternatives to mainstream platforms, with a focus on transparency, user empowerment, and innovation.
Bluesky is designed to foster more open, user-focused public conversations, aiming to avoid issues of censorship and monopolization seen in other social media.
