Bluesky’s Surge Challenges Threads as Custom Feeds Roll Out
- Recently, Bluesky has seen impressive growth, reaching over 20 million users.
- Users might prefer Bluesky for its design or because they want to avoid Meta's platform.
- Threads initially lacked key user features, such as an easy way to switch feeds.
Threads vs. Bluesky: A Growing Competition
Recently, Bluesky has seen impressive growth, reaching over 20 million users. It gained popularity partly due to the ban on X (formerly Twitter) in Brazil and the outcomes of the 2024 US presidential election. Many users are choosing Bluesky over Threads, Meta’s alternative to X.
Why Bluesky?
Users might prefer Bluesky for its design or because they want to avoid Meta’s platform. As various Twitter alternatives emerged since Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter in October 2022, many like Mastodon and Hive Social lost traction. Threads, which amassed over 200 million users since its launch in July 2023, dominated the space until the rise of Bluesky.
Threads’ Shortcomings
Threads initially lacked key user features, such as an easy way to switch feeds. Users needed to tap the Threads logo to find this option, which promoted the "For You" feed over the "Following" feed. Recent updates have improved this, making the feed switcher more visible and testing a new default feed option.
Adopting Bluesky Features
Threads has begun adopting features popularized by Bluesky. Custom feeds allow users to curate topics and communities. Starter packs, which help users follow related accounts, are still in development but show Threads is responsive to user needs. Custom feeds are now live for all users on Threads.
The Importance of Competition
It remains uncertain which platform will dominate the “Twitter alternative” market, but Bluesky and Threads are leading contenders. Their competition has prompted Meta to focus on improving Threads to retain users. This benefits all users by enhancing the overall experience on both platforms.