Bluesky has gained over one million users post-US elections, totaling 15 million as dissatisfaction with X grows under Elon Musk. Users cite increased toxicity and political issues as reasons for leaving X. Major publications like The Guardian have ceased posting on X, indicating wider criticism of the platform’s direction.
The micro-blogging platform Bluesky has recently reported a substantial increase in its user base, acquiring over one million new users following the United States presidential election, bringing its total to more than 15 million, a significant rise from approximately nine million in September. This surge has been attributed to individuals dissatisfied with X, formerly Twitter, particularly regarding its direction under billionaire owner Elon Musk. Many former users of X have sought refuge in Bluesky, citing a growing atmosphere of toxicity, including the proliferation of hateful content and political alignment with far-right ideologies, as their reasons for migrating to the new platform. Bluesky, initiated by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey in 2019, has emerged as a haven for left-leaning individuals disillusioned by X’s recent developments. Prominent figures, including billionaire Mark Cuban, have publicly expressed their discontent with X by endorsing a more positive and less divisive social media experience on Bluesky. Additionally, the announcement from The Guardian, a notable publication, to cease posting content on X due to what it described as “disturbing content” further highlights the dissatisfaction surrounding the platform. The publication emphasized that the detrimental aspects of operating on X now outweigh its benefits, advising that resources could be more effectively allocated to promote journalism elsewhere.
The shift in user sentiment towards Bluesky over X follows persistent concerns about the content moderation and political direction of X since Elon Musk acquired the platform in October 2022. The platform has witnessed notable waves of user drop-offs, particularly following high-profile controversies involving Musk’s political affiliations and the rising presence of extremist content. With the recent U.S. presidential election, these factors have culminated in an unprecedented rate of deactivation among users, leading to the substantial growth of Bluesky as a preferred alternative for many. The media’s response, particularly from outlets like The Guardian, further signifies a critical turning point in public perception of X.
In summary, Bluesky’s ascendance to over 15 million users highlights a significant shift in social media dynamics following the recent U.S. elections. The platform has successfully attracted individuals who are seeking an alternative to the perceived negativity and toxicity of X under Elon Musk’s ownership. This trend emphasizes the growing demand for a healthier online environment, and it may foreseeably influence the future landscape of social media as users continue to voice their preferences and concerns regarding content moderation and political bias.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
