Bluesky, the decentralized social network gaining increasing attention, introduced a highly anticipated feature on Christmas Day: Trending topics.
Currently in beta, the feature is being rolled out globally, available to users on both desktop and mobile apps.
This new addition aims to enhance user engagement by providing real-time insights into the most talked-about conversations across the platform.
How Bluesky’s Trending Topics Work
The trending topics feature on Bluesky offers users a convenient way to stay updated on the most popular discussions.
On desktop, trending topics appear on the right sidebar, while mobile users can tap the search button to access the trending feed. Initially, these topics are available only in English, with plans for multi-language support in the future.
Customization and Control for Users
A standout feature of Bluesky’s trending topics is the level of control it provides users. In addition to viewing trending topics, users can tailor their experience by muting specific words or topics they wish to avoid.
If a user has added a term to their muted words list, it will automatically be excluded from the trending topics feed.
Users have the option to disable trending topics altogether through the settings menu, offering full control over what appears in their feed.
Bluesky’s Rapid Growth and Global Ambitions
With over 25 million users, Bluesky continues to make significant strides in improving its platform’s functionality.
The launch of trending topics is part of a broader initiative to refine and expand the platform. The company has stated that this is just the beginning, with plans to further enhance and develop the feature in response to user feedback.
Comparing Bluesky with Competitors
Bluesky’s move to introduce trending topics comes as competitors like Threads have already rolled out similar features. Threads, for instance, began offering trending topics to U.S. users in March 2024 and expanded testing to Japan in October.
Unlike Threads, Bluesky’s trending topics feature is being made available globally, allowing users from all regions to participate.
Third-party Bluesky clients like Greysky had already integrated trending topics in their apps last year, giving users a preview of what was to come.
Bluesky’s Decentralized Architecture
Bluesky’s decentralized platform, built on the open-source AT Protocol, differentiates it from traditional social networks.
The protocol offers users more control over their data, and its federated design allows new social apps to be built using the same framework.
Bluesky’s popularity is also rising among high-profile users, including politicians, entrepreneurs, and media figures, which adds credibility to the platform and helps attract new users.
User Control and Customization
Bluesky is offering users more control over their social media experience. Through features like custom algorithms, personalized feeds, and various content management options, users can fine-tune what they see and how they engage with the platform.
The platform’s open-source nature also fosters innovation, allowing developers to create new features within the ecosystem.
Moderation, Privacy, and Monetization Strategies
Bluesky has taken steps to enhance its moderation tools, including automated content flagging systems and measures to prevent impersonation.
The platform also takes privacy seriously, avoiding the use of user content for AI training, which sets it apart from competitors.
In terms of monetization, Bluesky is exploring paid features, such as custom domains for user handles and premium services for enhanced media uploads and customization.
Social Media Evolution
As Bluesky continues to evolve, its decentralized approach and commitment to user control have the potential to reshape the social media landscape.
By offering an alternative to traditional platforms and prioritizing privacy and transparency, Bluesky is carving out a unique space in the market.
The introduction of trending topics is just one step in its ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and build a sustainable, user-centred social network.
As Bluesky fine-tunes the trending topics feature, user feedback will be crucial in shaping its future. The global rollout and further refinements are expected to help Bluesky compete more effectively with other social platforms.
