The 2024 US Presidential election has triggered a seismic shift in the social media landscape. In the aftermath, a mass exodus from Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) is underway, with millions migrating to a compelling alternative: Bluesky. This decentralized platform has witnessed an astonishing surge in users, catapulting from 14 million to an impressive 20 million in a matter of days – adding a million new users daily. This dramatic growth isn’t accidental; it’s a direct response to growing dissatisfaction with changes implemented on X post-acquisition, further amplified by the post-election environment.
But what makes Bluesky so appealing? The answer lies in its commitment to user experience and control, offering a refreshing contrast to both X and Meta’s Threads. Unlike Threads, which has noticeably minimized political content, Bluesky embraces open, personalized conversations. Its open-source model, built upon the AT Protocol, puts users firmly in the driver’s seat, empowering them to manage their content and moderation preferences. This decentralized governance, coupled with features like user-curated starter packs, is proving irresistible to those seeking an escape from corporate-controlled platforms.
For newcomers, navigating Bluesky’s extensive network can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, the platform’s ingenious starter packs simplify the process. These user-curated lists of accounts, categorized by interests, topics, or locations, allow new users to rapidly build their feed, bypassing the tedious process of individual account searches. Imagine instantly connecting with like-minded individuals sharing your passion for sustainable living, indie music, or local news—all without endless scrolling. This curated approach provides a far more tailored and engaging experience.
With over 86,000 starter packs currently available, finding the perfect fit is easier than ever. The Bluesky directory allows for keyword searches, enabling you to pinpoint precisely what you’re looking for. Once you’ve located relevant packs, you can choose to follow individual accounts or utilize the convenient ‘follow all’ button for immediate access to a wealth of new content. This streamlined approach fosters quick community building and rapid engagement.
Want to share your expertise and help others build their networks? Creating your own starter pack is surprisingly simple. Here’s how:
Step 1:
Access your profile on the Bluesky mobile or desktop app.Step 2:
Navigate to ‘Starter Packs’ and select ‘Create.’Step 3:
Give your pack a memorable name, write a compelling description, and choose the accounts to include.Step 4:
Share your curated collection with others via a post, expanding its reach and contributing to Bluesky’s vibrant ecosystem.The rapid growth of Bluesky is a testament to the growing demand for a more user-centric and decentralized social media experience. As the platform continues to evolve, its potential to reshape the social media landscape is undeniable. This shift reflects a larger trend of users demanding more control and transparency from the platforms they use, especially in the wake of significant societal events like the recent US Presidential election.
