Bluesky Pitches New Features to Disgruntled Threads Users

Bluesky, the decentralized social platform, has rolled out several new features in an attempt to attract frustrated users from its Meta-owned competitor, Threads. With complaints on Threads spiking over issues like engagement bait posts and overly sensitive moderation, Bluesky is seizing the opportunity to promote its platform with updates designed to improve user experience — and a cheeky reminder that it’s “not owned by a billionaire.”

New Features Rolling Out in Version 1.92

The latest Bluesky update (version 1.92) includes a series of enhancements that users have been requesting, as well as new customization tools to better personalize their profiles and posts. Here’s what’s new:

Pin Posts to Your Profile

In a move that mirrors a feature from X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky now allows users to pin posts to the top of their profiles. This gives users more control over what content visitors see first when they check out their page, which is a great way to highlight important posts or updates.

Customization Options: Fonts and Text Sizes

Bluesky is also offering more customization options for users with the addition of font and text size controls. Users can now choose between two different fonts — Theme and System — and adjust the size of text to suit their preferences. While the options are somewhat limited at this stage, Bluesky notes that the Theme font provides a better overall experience for most users.

Language Filters for a Global Experience

A major new feature is the introduction of language filters, allowing users to control which languages appear in their search results. This can help users tailor their feeds and search outcomes to focus on content in the language they prefer. Currently, users can only filter by one language at a time, but it’s a step towards a more user-friendly and inclusive global experience.

Improved Messaging and Video Sharing

Bluesky has also addressed user requests for quality-of-life improvements in its messaging system. Now, users can delete DM conversations with a simple swipe gesture, making it easier to clean up old or irrelevant chats. Additionally, the update includes the ability to share camera roll videos directly to the platform, enhancing the multimedia sharing capabilities of Bluesky.

Listening to Users: A Platform for the People

In a statement shared on Threads (ironic, right?), Bluesky emphasized that it’s always keeping an eye on user feedback to improve the platform. “We’re always keeping an eye on your feedback to improve the Bluesky experience,” the company said, taking the chance to remind both current and potential users that they can switch to Bluesky at any time.

Threads Users' Growing Frustrations

Bluesky’s latest pitch comes at a time when many Threads users are venting their frustrations over issues with the platform. Engagement bait posts have been flooding users’ feeds, reducing the quality of content that appears. Additionally, reports of overly aggressive moderation have resulted in account deletions or restrictions that many users feel are unjustified.

Adam Mosseri, head of Threads, has acknowledged these issues and assured users that they are being looked into. However, the slow response has left an opening for platforms like Bluesky to promote themselves as a more user-friendly alternative.

Bluesky's Unique Appeal

What sets Bluesky apart in the current landscape is its decentralized nature, meaning it’s not tied to the big tech giants like Meta, which owns Threads. This appeals to users who prefer a more independent platform and are tired of dealing with corporate algorithms and strict moderation policies.

Bluesky has also leaned into its “not owned by a billionaire” tagline, taking a jab at platforms like Threads and X that are controlled by wealthy tech moguls. With many users feeling disillusioned with large, billionaire-owned social networks, Bluesky’s message resonates with those seeking a more transparent and user-centered experience.

Final Thoughts

As the battle for short-posting social media dominance continues, Bluesky is positioning itself as a serious competitor to Threads and X. With the rollout of new features like post pinning, language filters, and improved customization, Bluesky is clearly focused on offering a more user-friendly, personalized experience. And with frustrations mounting among Threads users, Bluesky’s timing couldn’t be better.

Whether you’re looking for a decentralized platform or simply want a break from Meta’s social media offerings, now might be the perfect time to give Bluesky a try.

For more updates on social media platforms and tech innovations, stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News.