Bluesky, the decentralized social network, is introducing a new feature that allows users to personalize their main Discover feeds. This update allows users to provide feedback on the algorithmic feed and customize it according to their preferences. By incorporating “Show more like this” and “Show less like this” buttons in a post’s menu, users can now choose which content they want the algorithm to surface.
This feature aligns Bluesky with X (formerly Twitter), which also offers users the option to click on a “Not interested in this post” button within its For You feed. The goal is to give users more control over their timelines and ensure that they see content that aligns with their own preferences, rather than relying solely on the company’s algorithm.
Bluesky already offers a range of controls for users to configure their experience on the platform. Unlike centralized social media platforms, Bluesky allows users to create custom feeds that others can subscribe to. These feeds may have different themes or algorithms than Bluesky’s own Discover feed, giving users more options to discover interesting content across the network.
Additionally, Bluesky allows users to subscribe to multiple moderation services, enabling them to decide what type of posts they want to see and what they prefer to keep hidden. Users can even create and manage their own independent moderation services using Bluesky’s tool, Ozone. By giving users these controls, Bluesky aims to create a platform where users can shape their own experience, rather than having policies and rules dictated by a select group of executives.
However, Bluesky has faced challenges in the past when it comes to moderation. The platform has received criticism for mishandling moderation issues, such as allowing usernames with racial slurs to slip through its filters. In response to demands for better moderation, Bluesky began removing users from the service, which led to the departure of Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey from the board. Dorsey believed that Bluesky was repeating Twitter’s mistakes and emphasized that the platform is not truly decentralized, but just another app.
Despite these setbacks, Bluesky continues to empower its users by providing them with more tools. The platform’s app remains the largest server running its decentralized AT Protocol. However, Bluesky is also expanding its network by supporting other initiatives, such as the blogging platform whtwnd.com, which is also built on the AT Protocol.
Bluesky currently boasts around 5.6 million users and has promised additional significant changes in the future. These include support for video, direct messages, better customization options for feeds, anti-harassment features, OAuth integration, and more. The company is committed to continuously improving its platform and addressing user needs and concerns.