Bluesky

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky is a decentralized social networking platform that emerged as an alternative to traditional social media services like Twitter/X. Originally conceived within Twitter as an internal project in 2019, Bluesky became an independent company in 2021 and launched publicly in 2024. The platform is built on the AT Protocol (Authenticated Transfer Protocol), which allows for decentralized, federated social networking.

What distinguishes Bluesky from conventional social platforms is its commitment to decentralization and user control. Users can potentially host their own data, choose their own algorithms, and migrate their accounts between different service providers without losing their followers or content. The platform offers a familiar microblogging experience similar to Twitter while pioneering new approaches to social media architecture that prioritize user autonomy and interoperability.

Key Features

• Decentralized Architecture: Built on AT Protocol allowing federated networking and data portability
• Custom Feeds: Choose from community-created algorithmic feeds or build your own
• Domain Handles: Use your own domain as your handle for verified identity
• Post Controls: Thread replies, quote posts, and granular sharing options
• Moderation Tools: Composable moderation with user-chosen labeling services
• No Ads: Currently ad-free with user experience as priority
• Content Warnings: Native support for content labels and warnings
• Lists and Mute Words: Advanced filtering and curation tools
• Developer API: Open API for third-party client development
• Chronological Option: View posts in chronological order alongside algorithmic feeds

What’s New

Bluesky has rapidly evolved since its public launch in 2024:

• Public Launch: Removed invite-only restrictions, opening to all users
• Rapid Growth: Reached millions of users following major platform migrations
• Video Support: Added native video posting and playback
• Direct Messages: Introduced private messaging between users
• Starter Packs: Curated lists to help new users find interesting accounts
• Custom Feeds Expansion: Growing ecosystem of community-built feeds
• Improved Mobile Apps: Enhanced iOS and Android applications
• Federation Progress: Steps toward full protocol federation

System Requirements

Web Browser

• Any modern browser: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
• JavaScript enabled
• Internet connection

iOS

• iOS 15.0 or later
• iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch
• 50 MB storage space

Android

• Android 8.0 or later
• 50 MB storage space
• Internet connection

Desktop Clients (Third-Party)

• Windows 10/11, macOS 10.15+, or Linux
• Various third-party clients available through AT Protocol

How to Install Bluesky

Web Access

1. Open your web browser
2. Navigate to bsky.app
3. Click “Sign Up” to create account
4. Choose your handle (username)
5. Verify email and start using

# Access Bluesky web app
open https://bsky.app

# Create account at
# https://bsky.app/signup

iOS Installation

1. Open App Store on your iOS device
2. Search for “Bluesky Social”
3. Tap Get and confirm with Face ID/Touch ID
4. Open app and sign up or log in

# Direct App Store link
# https://apps.apple.com/app/bluesky-social/id6444370199

Android Installation

1. Open Google Play Store
2. Search for “Bluesky Social”
3. Tap Install
4. Open app and create account or sign in

# Direct Play Store link
# https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=xyz.blueskyweb.app

Setting Up Custom Domain Handle

# To use your own domain as your handle:
# 1. Go to Settings > Handle
# 2. Choose "I have my own domain"
# 3. Add a DNS TXT record to your domain:
#    Host: _atproto
#    Value: did=did:plc:your-did-here

# Example DNS record:
# _atproto.yourdomain.com TXT "did=did:plc:abc123xyz"

# After DNS propagates, verify in Bluesky settings

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Decentralized: User data portability and choice of service providers
• No Ads: Clean, ad-free experience focused on content
• Custom Feeds: Choose how you want to see content with algorithmic transparency
• Domain Handles: Verify identity using your own domain
• Open Protocol: AT Protocol allows third-party clients and innovation
• Growing Community: Active, engaged user base with diverse interests
• Moderation Options: Choose your own moderation services and labels

Cons

• Smaller Network: Fewer users compared to established platforms
• Limited Features: Still developing features available on mature platforms
• Federation Incomplete: Full decentralization still in progress
• Learning Curve: New concepts like custom feeds may confuse newcomers
• Business Uncertainty: Sustainable monetization model still evolving
• No Verification Badge: Domain handles replace traditional verification

Bluesky vs Alternatives

Who Should Use Bluesky?

Bluesky is ideal for:

• Privacy-Conscious Users: Those who value data ownership and portability
• Twitter Refugees: Users seeking a familiar microblogging experience
• Developers: Those interested in building on open protocols
• Early Adopters: Users who enjoy shaping new platforms
• Content Creators: Those wanting algorithmic transparency and control
• Tech Enthusiasts: Users interested in decentralized social media

Bluesky may not be ideal for:

• Mass Reach Seekers: Those needing the largest possible audience
• Feature-Dependent Users: Those requiring advanced features still in development
• Non-Technical Users: Some features have a learning curve
• Brand Marketers: Limited advertising and analytics tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bluesky completely free?

Yes, Bluesky is currently free to use with no premium tiers or paid features. The platform is funded by investors and has not yet implemented monetization. The team has indicated they may explore premium features in the future but are committed to keeping the core experience free and ad-free for as long as possible.

What is the AT Protocol?

The AT Protocol (Authenticated Transfer Protocol) is the decentralized foundation that powers Bluesky. It enables account portability (moving your account between providers), algorithmic choice (choosing your own feeds), and federation (different servers communicating). Unlike closed platforms, AT Protocol is an open standard that anyone can build on.

Can I migrate my Twitter followers to Bluesky?

There is no direct follower migration from Twitter to Bluesky. However, various community tools help users find their Twitter connections on Bluesky. You can share your Bluesky handle on Twitter, use matching services that cross-reference both platforms, or share a “starter pack” of accounts for your followers to discover.

How do custom feeds work?

Custom feeds on Bluesky are algorithmic feeds created by users or developers using the AT Protocol. Unlike traditional platforms where you get one algorithm, Bluesky lets you pin multiple feeds and switch between them. Feeds can filter by topics, languages, engagement types, or any criteria the feed creator designs. You can discover feeds others have made or create your own using the feed generator tools.

Is Bluesky really decentralized?

Bluesky is working toward full decentralization but is not fully federated yet. Currently, most users are on the main bsky.social server, but the AT Protocol is designed for federation. Your account can theoretically move between providers, and the protocol allows for multiple independent servers. Full federation, where anyone can run a Bluesky-compatible server, is on the development roadmap.

Final Verdict

Bluesky represents an ambitious reimagining of social media that prioritizes user agency and decentralization. Its AT Protocol foundation offers genuine innovation in how social networks can operate, with features like algorithmic choice, data portability, and domain-based identity that set it apart from centralized alternatives.

The platform has attracted a vibrant, engaged community, particularly among those disillusioned with traditional social media. The absence of ads, coupled with thoughtful feature development, has created a refreshingly user-focused experience that many find preferable to ad-laden alternatives.

While Bluesky is still maturing and has fewer users than established giants, its technical foundation and growing momentum make it a compelling option for anyone interested in the future of social networking. For those willing to be part of building something new, Bluesky offers both a functional platform today and the promise of a more open, user-controlled social media tomorrow.