Bluesky Gains 1 Million Users Post-Election as Discontent Grows with X

Following the US presidential election, Bluesky has gained over 1 million new users, surpassing 15 million. Many users have left X, disillusioned with its management under Elon Musk. Prominent outlets like The Guardian have also stopped content posting on X, citing concerns over harmful content.

In the wake of the recent US presidential election, the micro-blogging platform Bluesky has experienced significant growth, attracting over one million new users. This influx increased the total user count from nine million in September to more than 15 million. Many users reportedly transitioned from X, formerly Twitter, due to dissatisfaction with changes implemented under the ownership of Elon Musk. As Bluesky positions itself as a haven for disenchanted users, it has emphasized its distinct values in contrast to what is perceived as X’s decline in content moderation. Moreover, prominent media outlets such as The Guardian have now publicly ceased posting content on X, citing concerns about the platform’s proliferation of harmful content and its toxic environment.

Bluesky was founded by Twitter’s creator, Jack Dorsey, in 2019, and has recently become known for attracting users who feel alienated by the shift in X’s direction since its acquisition by Elon Musk in late 2022. Under Musk’s leadership, critics have pointed to rising instances of hate speech and a perceived alignment with more conservative viewpoints, which has driven a notable segment of the user base to seek alternatives. The rise of Bluesky comes amidst reported mass account deactivations on X, particularly following politically charged events such as the recent US election. The platform’s growth is positioned against the backdrop of increasing dissatisfaction with X’s content management policies.

The growth of Bluesky following the US presidential election highlights the shifting dynamics in social media, as users express their discontent with X’s recent trajectory under Elon Musk. The platform not only celebrates its increase in user numbers but also provides a contrasting space for those seeking a more moderated online discourse. Meanwhile, established media organizations re-evaluating their presence on X due to content concerns further accentuates the challenges facing the platform as it strives to maintain its user base.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com