#78 Untangling: BlueSky

Welcome to the latest episode of the Untangling Web 3 podcast! Today, we're exploring BlueSky, the emerging decentralized social media platform that aims to challenge Twitter (now X) by offering more user control and transparency.

Born from the vision of Jack Dorsey, BlueSky promises a fresh take on social networking, rooted in decentralization and user empowerment. As X grapples with controversies and shifting user sentiment, BlueSky steps in as an alternative that brings innovation back to the forefront of social media.

Key Highlights:

• Why Users Are Leaving X (Twitter): we look at the underlying reasons why millions are turning away from X, touching on the growing dissatisfaction with algorithm-driven content that amplifies divisive and sensational material, fostering a less pleasant user experience. These trends have pushed many users to seek platforms that provide a more controlled and positive social space, setting the stage for BlueSky’s rise.
• BlueSky’s Decentralized Foundation: BlueSky stands out due to its use of the Authenticated Transfer Protocol (ATP), which offers a more transparent and flexible user experience. Unlike centralized models like X and Meta's Threads, ATP allows users to manage their data, move seamlessly between servers, and customize their social media algorithms. This decentralized infrastructure empowers users to tailor their feeds and content moderation, giving them more say in how they interact with social media.
• Custom Algorithms and User Empowerment: One of BlueSky's most compelling features is its focus on user customization. Listeners will learn how BlueSky enables people to choose or create custom algorithms to curate their content, moving beyond the opaque, engagement-driven algorithms of centralized platforms. We discuss how this opens doors for a more personal, less contentious user experience where individuals have true autonomy over what appears in their feeds.

As social media evolves, BlueSky presents an exciting and innovative shift toward user-centric design and decentralization. By offering more control, transparency, and data portability, it challenges the status quo set by platforms like Twitter (X).

While questions remain about monetization and scalability, BlueSky’s early traction and vision suggest it could become a strong contender in the decentralized social media space.

Learn more about Web3 at:

https://untanglingweb3.com/

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Untangling Web3 is brought to you by hosts Jack Davies and Alec Burns, with music by Daniel Paigge. Got a question or topic suggestion? Send us an email at [email protected].

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