Thinking of Joining Bluesky? Here’s What You Should Know First

Mehr N.
December 31, 2024

Have you ever noticed that social media platforms nowadays seem to know more about us and the kind of content we like than we do? 

Most of us have accepted it as the cost of staying connected with the world, but what if we tell you that things are changing now? 

What if you can move freely between conversations, pick whatever you want to see, and even set your own rules for your experience? 

That’s the vibe Bluesky is aiming for.

You might have heard recent chatter about Bluesky and words like “decentralized” and “AT Protocol.” The real question is, what is all the hype about?

If you’re curious about what Bluesky has to offer or considering signing up, you’re not alone. Millions are lining up to get on this platform, looking for a fresh start in social networking. 

But before you step into it, let’s break down everything you need about Bluesky.

What Is Bluesky, and How Does It Work?

Bluesky is a decentralized social media platform that is built on the AT Protocol. In simple words, it gives you control over your digital identity and carries your connections (aka your “social graph”) across different apps that use the same protocol.

Unlike traditional social networks, which lock you into their ecosystem, Bluesky takes a more flexible approach. 

Imagine being able to pack up all your followers, posts, and preferences and take them with you if you decide to switch platforms. That’s the promise of decentralization.

However, Bluesky isn’t part of the Fediverse (the interconnected network of platforms like Mastodon and Threads), which uses the ActivityPub protocol. 

Bluesky is currently a self-contained space. Tools like Openvibe allow users to interact with Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads from a single app, suggesting that these platforms might soon work together.

Bluesky Login Page

Things to Know About Bluesky

1. It's a rapidly growing platform

Bluesky’s growth has been meteoric. In just a few months, it has attracted over 24 million users, which shows how much people are looking for a change from the usual social media. 

In fact, Bluesky’s popularity has grown to the point that it now tops the app charts, surpassing big names like TikTok and ChatGPT. Its user base has grown particularly fast during recent major events. 

The U.S. election of 2024 brought a larger audience to Bluesky as people sought platforms that provide transparency and user control.

If you are a little data curious, you can track Bluesky’s growth in real-time at bcounter.nat.vg.

2. No algorithm? Yes please!

There are days when you get extremely frustrated with how algorithms pick and choose what you see on your feed. Unlike mainstream platforms, Bluesky doesn’t rely on algorithms to bring posts to your feed.

The posts get visibility when users like or “re-skeet” (Bluesky’s version of retweeting) them. This means your feed isn’t dominated by what’s trending or who paid for ads. It will totally depend on what people like you actually care about.

So for those tired of feeling controlled by algorithms, this shift is a refreshing change.

3. You can personalize your Bluesky experience

Customization is at the heart of Bluesky’s core. Here's how you can personalize your Bluesky account:

Feeds: Now you have to forget the one-size-fits-one approach. With Bluesky, you can create or follow feeds centred around specific topics or interests. It can be tech news, gardening tips, or indie music, and you’re in control of selecting what lands in your timeline.

Lists: These are versatile tools for organizing accounts. Want a list of your favourite tech influencers? Done. Need a moderation list to block out negativity? You’ve got it. And since lists can be public, they double as recommendations for others.

Starter Packs: If you are new to Bluesky, don’t worry! Starter Packs help you get started quickly with pre-selected collections of accounts and custom feeds to follow. It’s like having a local guide when exploring a new city.

These tools make it easier to create a feed that feels personal to you rather than programmed.

4. Bluesky believes in privacy first

Bluesky takes user privacy seriously, and its “Nuclear Block” feature is a prime example of it. Blocking someone here doesn’t just silence their posts. It erases any digital trace of the person’s connection with you.

Once blocked, users can’t see your posts or quote you, and you can even remove mentions of yourself from their conversations. 

The feature helps you get a clean break, is designed to minimize drama, and protects your online space. This sense of control attracts more people to Bluesky.

If you are wondering who has blocked you or if you’re on their moderation list, independent tools like the Clear Sky app provide insights. It gives you a clear view of your interactions and ensures your online space remains exactly how you want it.

5. Create a custom handle for your profile

Bluesky's verification process is slightly different from that of other major platforms. Instead of badges, it lets users claim a custom handle tied to their own domain (e.g., yourname.com). 

This approach makes profiles feel more personal and adds a layer of authenticity.

Setting up your custom handle is simple and a great way to establish credibility while avoiding traditional verification methods.

6. It’s ad-free (but for how long?)

One of Bluesky’s biggest selling points is that it provides an ad-free experience. 

The platform is currently supported by grants and contributions from its dedicated user community. However, as the platform's user base expands to over 24 million, the need to explore sustainable monetization strategies becomes increasingly important.

Jay Graber, the CEO of Bluesky, has made it clear that the future of the platform will not include invasive advertising or the harvesting of user data through AI technologies. Instead, the Bluesky team is considering several innovative funding models that align with their commitment to user privacy and control. These include:

  • Subscription Models: Users could pay a regular fee for premium features, ensuring the platform remains free of ads.
  • Marketplace for Custom Algorithms: This would allow users to purchase or sell personalized algorithms, enhancing their individual experience on the platform.
  • Domain Name Sales: Bluesky might offer unique domain names for sale, providing another revenue stream that respects user experience.

This strategy demonstrates Bluesky’s dedication to maintaining a user-centric approach while exploring effective monetization methods that respect privacy and promote a positive community environment.

7. You can host your own server

Bluesky is now in its “federation phase,” which means users can host their own Personal Data Servers (PDS). 

Sounds confusing? You’re not the only one – we’ve been there too! But don’t worry, Bluesky provides plenty of resources to help you understand what that’s all about.

Setting up a PDS gives you more control over your data and interactions. 

It’s like running your own little slice of the internet, contributing to Bluesky’s broader decentralized ecosystem.

You can check out Bluesky’s GitHub page or join the PDS Administrators Discord for detailed setup instructions.

8. You can create an app ecosystem

Bluesky's open API has led to a variety of third-party tools and apps that enrich the platform and set it apart from others. Here’s a quick look:

  • Deck Blue: This dashboard is great for those who juggle multiple conversations, helping them stay organized with its multi-column layout. It’s a game-changer for power users who need to keep tabs on everything at once.
  • Graysky: This app adds fun and functionality with GIF support and real-time translation, making it easier to connect with a global audience and express yourself more vividly.
  • Bluesky Meter: For those focused on growing their influence, this tool tracks profile performance and engagement, providing essential insights to help shape your strategy.

Together, these apps enhance the Bluesky experience, making it a more powerful and user-friendly platform for everyone looking to engage more effectively online.

So... Should You Join Bluesky?

If you’re tired of your feeds being algorithm-driven and want a platform that puts control back in your hands, Bluesky is worth exploring. 

Unlike what most people are saying, Bluesky is NOT a clone of X (Twitter) or a Mastodon alternative. It's an entirely different platform that offers customization, privacy, and user empowerment for those seeking a fresh start in social networking. 

For more insights and tips on digital marketing, follow our blogs.

Ready to 5x Your Revenue?

We’ve scaled 500+ brands to new heights. Schedule a free consultation with our growth experts today to discover how we can do the same for your store!

Let's Talk

"We were incredibly impressed by the entire team at DIGITORM. They are great collaborators, easy to work with and very responsive. We will continue to work with Digitorm for our future marketing needs."

- Marketing Team at Nagaba Vegan