Bluesky, the social media platform backed by Jack Dorsey, is attracting a sizable number of users lately courtesy of growing dissatisfaction with X (formerly Twitter). Following the recent U.S. presidential election, Bluesky saw a massive influx of over one million new users in just 90 days. This marks another milestone in the social platform’s climb, as it competes for the spotlight against X. But why are users abandoning X? And what does this surge in Bluesky’s numbers mean for the future of social media platforms?
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Since the U.S. election, Bluesky’s user base has soared, growing from 13 million at the end of October to a robust 15 million. The platform mirrors X’s interface with features like the “discover feed” and a chronological feed for followed accounts. More users are migrating from X, which has faced increased controversy. In fact, some former prominent journalists and media outlets are leaving X, calling it a “toxic” platform.
Bluesky’s popularity isn’t new as it gained traction earlier this year following X’s ban in Brazil. The post-election wave of sign-ups represents the platform’s strongest growth yet. However, while Bluesky is riding a wave of increased attention, X still holds a much larger user base. Yet some key factors suggest that X’s growth may be slowing down.
Bluesky’s rapid rise also comes at a time when X’s owner, Elon Musk, faces criticism for steering the platform in a right-leaning direction and permitting controversial content. Musk’s leadership has led to a marked increase in the user exodus for alternatives like Bluesky.
What’s Next for Social Media?
Bluesky’s growth certainly gives X something to think about. The user engagement on Bluesky is reported to be markedly higher. Some users even note better engagement despite having larger followings on X. However, despite Bluesky’s gains, X continues to see increased traffic on certain days. Politically charged events and live conversations still bring high engagement volumes on X.
As for the future, Bluesky may continue its growth, but whether it can fully dethrone X remains uncertain. The combination of X’s vast user base and Musk’s strategic moves may keep it a dominant force. But does the rise of alternative platforms, like Bluesky, indicate changes in users’ interactions with social media?
TF Summary: What’s Next
Bluesky’s impressive rise is notable especially in the wake of X’s recent controversies. But while Bluesky is gaining steam, it’s unclear if it can supplant X. As both platforms develop better functionalities, the recent user exodus and influx between them remains a point of interest.
Social media users are increasingly demanding platforms align with their values. How the platforms respond to these demands may be the crucial element to their future successes.
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