Bluesky: A Decentralized Alternative to X Gains Momentum

News Desk

Islamabad: Bluesky, a decentralized social media platform, has emerged as a significant alternative to X (formerly Twitter), gaining traction as celebrities and journalists leave Elon Musk’s platform over concerns about increasing far-right content, hate speech, harassment, and crypto scams.

Originally conceptualized by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey in 2019, Bluesky aims to offer an “open and decentralized” social media experience. It became an independent company in 2021 under the leadership of CEO Jay Graber.

Functionally similar to X, Bluesky allows users to post, reply, and message others. However, its standout feature lies in its decentralized architecture, empowering users with greater control over their data and interactions.

In contrast, X operates on a centralized model, where the company retains significant control over user data. Additionally, Bluesky offers customizable timelines, allowing users to dictate how they engage with content.

The platform’s user base has surged, reaching approximately 16.7 million users as of November 2024, compared to 9 million in September. This growth aligns with a mass exodus from X, driven by dissatisfaction with its moderation policies and platform direction.

Prominent Hollywood figures such as James Gunn, John Cusack, Ben Stiller, Kumail Nanjiani, and Dionne Warwick are among those who have migrated to Bluesky. While some, including Matt Reeves, Edgar Wright, and Ryan Reynolds, maintain active accounts, they have not posted recently.

Bluesky’s rise underscores the increasing demand for decentralized social media platforms, as users prioritize control, transparency, and a safer digital environment over traditional, centralized platforms.