Bluesky Sees Significant User Growth Following US Election

Following the US election, social media platform Bluesky reported a surge in users, increasing from 9 million to 14.5 million members. The company gained approximately 700,000 new users in the week following the election, primarily from the US and UK. This shift is attributed to dissatisfaction with Elon Musk’s X, including rising misinformation and offensive content. Notable figures have also joined Bluesky, indicating a trend of users seeking alternative platforms.

Bluesky, the social media platform initially conceived as part of Twitter, has experienced a significant boost in users following the recent US elections, reporting an increase from 9 million members in September to 14.5 million by November 12, 2024. The company attributes this surge—700,000 new users within the week post-election—primarily to individuals from the US and UK leaving the platform formerly known as X, previously Twitter. Bluesky spokesperson Emily Liu expressed enthusiasm for the new demographic joining, which includes various individuals across diverse sectors. The shift away from X is largely seen as a response to the platform’s current ownership by Elon Musk, especially in light of his support for President-elect Donald Trump and the rise in reported misinformation and offensive content since his acquisition. Notable figures, including New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have also transitioned to Bluesky, discussing the positive environment of the platform in contrast to their experiences on X. August saw a similar migration of users from X to Bluesky amid civil unrest in the UK, indicating a growing pattern of discontent on Musk’s platform. Bluesky emerged as a standalone entity in 2021, emphasizing a decentralized approach to social networking. Although its interface resembles that of X, the platform aims to facilitate better user interactions while avoiding a centralized corporate structure. Notably, Bluesky ranks second to Threads, Meta’s social media platform, in active user engagement on the US Apple App store.

Bluesky originated in 2019 under the auspices of Twitter, with the intent to create a decentralized social media platform. Officially launched in 2021, it seeks to establish an environment where different communities can engage without the overarching control of corporate entities such as Twitter or Facebook. This innovative approach positions Bluesky as a competitive alternative to traditional platforms, particularly after recent events that have resulted in user dissatisfaction with X under Elon Musk’s ownership. It reflects a growing trend of users seeking platforms that prioritize a better user experience and reduced misinformation.

In conclusion, Bluesky’s recent surge in membership highlights a significant shift in user preferences following the US elections, driven by a desire for a more positive and community-driven social media experience. As notable public figures and a diverse range of individuals transition to Bluesky from X, the platform appears well-positioned to capitalize on its decentralized model and the increasing demand for healthier online social environments. The phenomenon illustrates the ongoing evolution of social media dynamics in the wake of political and corporate influences.

Original Source: news.sky.com