Bluesky Attracts 700,000 Users Amidst Discontent with X After US Elections

Bluesky has gained 700,000 new users in the week following the US elections, driven by individuals leaving X due to concerns over misinformation. The platform’s user base soared to 14.5 million globally. Experts noted Bluesky’s effective moderation policies have made it a preferred choice for those seeking a civil online environment. The recent growth highlights a significant shift in social media preferences, with prominent figures joining the site as well.

In the wake of the US election, the social media platform Bluesky has experienced an impressive surge, acquiring over 700,000 new users in just one week. This growth comes as individuals seek alternatives to X, previously known as Twitter, amidst concerns over misinformation and unacceptable content. According to Bluesky, the user base has now expanded to 14.5 million worldwide, a significant rise from 9 million in September. Social media researcher Axel Bruns indicated that Bluesky’s effective measures in account management and moderation have attracted users looking for a more civil online environment. He noted the platform has effectively catered to those wishing to escape the politically charged atmosphere that has characterized X since Elon Musk’s takeover. Since its initiation as a project under Twitter, Bluesky transitioned to an independent entity in 2022, primarily under the leadership of Chief Executive Jay Graber. The recent dissatisfaction with X, particularly following its rebranding and subsequent user decline, has further propelled Bluesky’s success. Historically, Bluesky noted user influxes following controversial policy changes at X, reflecting the platform’s role as a refuge for those discontented with X’s direction. As a testament to its growing popularity, Bluesky is attracting notable figures, including academics and politicians, who find value in its community-building features, such as “starter packs” for users with shared interests. Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat highlighted her transition from X, gaining over 21,000 followers within a single day on Bluesky. Her observations underscore the platform’s burgeoning appeal as a vibrant, informative alternative. Professor Bruns remarked that while new user onboarding presents challenges, this expansion reflects a return to the excitement of early social media. In a recent post, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expressed her satisfaction in rejoining the Bluesky community, celebrating the platform as a positive space for interaction. This sentiment is echoed by many users eager to engage in a more human-centric digital environment. As Bluesky continues to evolve, adding features akin to X while maintaining its distinctiveness, its trajectory suggests a sustained upward momentum in the social media landscape. Overall, the recent influx of users highlights Bluesky’s position as an alternative to X, appealing particularly to those disillusioned by the prevailing culture on traditional platforms. The company now finds itself at a pivotal point, poised to harness this momentum and establish a lasting presence in the competitive social media sector.

The rise of Bluesky as a prominent social media platform is intricately linked to the shifting dynamics of user interaction on X, previously Twitter. The recent US elections have intensified scrutiny on the proliferation of misinformation and hate speech on social media, prompting users to migrate towards platforms that promise a healthier discourse. With X’s ownership under Elon Musk raising further concerns regarding bias and political affiliations, Bluesky presents itself as an independent alternative focusing on community engagement and moderation. The confluence of these factors has catalyzed significant user growth for Bluesky, reflecting broader trends in social media usage as individuals seek more conscientious online spaces.

In conclusion, Bluesky’s substantial gain of 700,000 users following the US elections illustrates a clear shift in user preference towards platforms fostering a respectful and informed discourse. With its commitment to user-friendly features and effective moderation, Bluesky positions itself as a viable alternative to X. The enthusiasm demonstrated by notable figures and everyday users alike underscores the platform’s potential to carve out a significant niche in the social media landscape as it navigates its development journey.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com