Bluesky Gains 700,000 Users as X Sees Exodus Post-US Election

Bluesky Gains 700,000 Users as X Sees Exodus Post-US Election

November 12, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Business

Bluesky Sees Surge in Users Amid Shift from X

Bluesky, a social media platform originally conceived as part of Twitter, has seen a significant surge in users. The surge is largely attributed to users dissatisfied with Elon Musk’s rebranded platform X, particularly following the recent U.S. election.

Key Highlights

  • User Increase: Bluesky added 700,000 new users in the week after the U.S. presidential election, bringing its total user base to 14.5 million by mid-November[1][2][3].
  • Geographic Origin: The majority of these new users are from the U.S. and the U.K., reflecting concerns about Musk’s support for President-elect Donald Trump[1][2][3].
  • Platform Dissatisfaction: Users are leaving X due to increased misinformation, offensive posts, and problems blocking users. This dissatisfaction was highlighted by public figures like New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who welcomed the shift to a more real and human online space[1][2][3].

Historical Context

Bluesky has experienced similar influxes of users in the past, including a 60% increase in activity from UK users in August due to Musk’s divisive comments on the UK’s rioting[1][2][3].

Future Prospects

Despite its growth, Bluesky still trails Meta’s Threads in terms of monthly active users. To compete effectively, Bluesky has introduced features like direct messaging and video compatibility, aiming to make it more similar to its rival platforms[5].

Impact and Influence

The shift from X to Bluesky reflects a broader trend. Users are seeking safer, more respectful digital spaces where they can connect without fear of encountering injurious or misleading content. This indicates a need for platforms that prioritize user well-being and community harmony[2][5].