Following the 2024 US presidential elections Elon Musk’s Bluesky social media application appeared to be very compatible with Donald Trump increase in new users.

Bluesky is a social media platform originally designed within Twitter (now X) that offers a user-friendly experience reminiscent of the early days of Twitter.

Bluesky attracted the attention of users looking for an alternative to X’s increasingly politicized environment. Bluesky Social prioritizes content moderation, security, and user autonomy, making it a haven for those who want a less toxic space.

Like X moves further into controversial territoryBluesky is increasingly seen as a competitive haven, topping app charts and attracting millions of users.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Bluesky social media app.

What is Bluesky?

blue sky It is a social media platform initially developed within X (formerly Twitter) and spun off into an independent company in 2022.

Created as a decentralized alternative to traditional social networks, this platform aims to provide a less toxic social space where users can interact without the heavy presence of bots, hate speech or misinformation. According to Tulane University School of Professional Development, Decentralized platforms run on independent serversThe servers are not owned by the platform, and users can tailor their posts to their liking.

Bluesky offers features like powerful moderation tools, customizable feeds, and a more effective blocking function that many people find refreshing compared to X.

Is Bluesky an alternative to Twitter?

Yes, Bluesky is an alternative to Twitter, especially for people who want spaces free of the divisive politics and algorithmic controls that determine people’s flows on X.

Bluesky is designed to look familiar to old X users, with a layout and functionality that closely resembles X’s traditional format. Here are some key similarities and differences in its interface and design:

• Feeds and posts:Like X, Bluesky has a scrolling feed where users can view posts in chronological order. Users can post text, images, and video and easily customize their streams with content filters and moderation tools.

• Profile layout: Profiles on Bluesky are similar to X profiles, with profile pictures, cover images, follower/following count, and bio section.

• Interactions: Users can interact by liking, resharing, and commenting on posts, providing a familiar social interaction framework for those accustomed to X.

• Direct messaging: Bluesky recently added direct messaging, allowing users to communicate privately.

• Decentralized management and customizable algorithms: Bluesky is built on a decentralized system, not company-owned servers. Users can have more control over what they see by customizing their algorithms or choosing from community-created algorithms.

Why do people go to Bluesky?

People go to Bluesky to escape the misinformation, hate speech and right-wing extremism that has intensified due to Elon Musk’s possession of X and his recent alliance with Donald Trump. Bluesky’s control and customizable user experience offers a “sanctuary” for those seeking a more civilized environment. Bluesky wins since US elections 700,000 new usersAccording to the Guardian news outlet.

Does Bluesky belong to Twitter?

No, Bluesky does not belong to Twitter. Although it started as a project within X, it became an independent company in 2022. Bluesky’s main owner today is its CEO, Jay Graber, who has steered its direction towards a community-centric platform focused on security and open discourse.

Is Bluesky free to use?

Yes, Bluesky is free to use. Users can download and sign up without paying any subscription fee.

Who owns Bluesky?

Bluesky is primarily owned by Jay Graber, who serves as CEO. Before leading Bluesky, Graber was involved in several technology projects, particularly in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space where decentralized systems and user control were central themes.

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This article was first published in Arizona Republic: Why are people leaving Twitter for Bluesky Social?