Bluesky Surges Past 15 Million Users Post-Election as X Faces User Exodus

Bluesky has gained over one million new users post-US presidential election, increasing its total to over 15 million. This influx is largely attributed to users leaving X, dissatisfied with Elon Musk’s changes and the platform’s rise in hate content. High-profile criticisms, including from The Guardian, emphasize the shifting landscape of social media preferences among users.

Following the recent United States presidential election, Bluesky, a micro-blogging platform, has experienced significant growth, reportedly adding over one million new users. The platform now boasts more than 15 million users, rising from nine million in September. This surge is attributed to users migrating from X, dissatisfied with the changes implemented by Elon Musk since his acquisition of the social media platform in October 2022. Bluesky, initiated by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey in 2019, has positioned itself as an alternative space for those who find the environment on X increasingly contentious. The dissatisfaction stems from Musk’s affiliations and the perceived increase in hate speech and divisive content under his guidance. High-profile figures, including billionaire Mark Cuban, have openly criticized X, calling it a “toxic media platform.” In a notable move, The Guardian announced its decision to cease content sharing on X, emphasizing concerns regarding the platform’s disturbing nature, citing issues such as racism and conspiracy theories. As users flock to Bluesky, it has enhanced its appeal as an inclusive refuge for those disenchanted with X. Bluesky notably distanced itself from political partisanship, asserting that its team would not align with any presidential candidates, a statement indicative of its planned neutrality and intention to foster a more welcoming space for all users. Consequently, Bluesky’s user base continues to expand, despite the broader appeal X retains due to its considerably larger audience.

In the wake of heightened political tensions and dissatisfaction with social media platforms, Bluesky has emerged as a notable competitor to X (formerly Twitter). Since its inception in 2019 by Jack Dorsey, the platform has attracted left-leaning users who have grown weary of X’s recent direction under Elon Musk. Musk’s leadership brought a wave of controversy, with users increasingly perceiving the platform as a breeding ground for hateful and divisive content. This shift has catalyzed a movement of users migrating to Bluesky in search of a more supportive online environment, especially following the recent US presidential election, which often exacerbated these sentiments.

In summary, Bluesky’s recent user growth can be attributed to disaffection with X, particularly following the US presidential election and the controversial changes made under Elon Musk’s ownership. As more individuals seek alternative platforms that promote a less hostile atmosphere, Bluesky is successfully positioning itself as a viable sanctuary for users feeling marginalized by X. This trend highlights a potential shift in social media dynamics, as users increasingly prioritize the values and environment fostered by these platforms over sheer user numbers.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com