Bluesky Enhances Video Features and User Experience
Bluesky is making significant strides to enhance its video functionalities. The latest update allows users to upload videos of up to three minutes in length, a considerable increase from the previous one-minute cap. This enhancement is expected to provide content creators on Bluesky with greater creative freedom, something that enthusiasts of Flashes—a new app for photos and videos based on Bluesky—will surely appreciate.
Improved Messaging Tools for Better Inbox Management
The recent update also introduces essential tools for managing direct messages (DMs) within Bluesky. A “requests” section has been added to filter incoming messages from unknown users, allowing greater control over interactions. Additionally, the option to decline unsolicited chat requests will help users minimize unwanted spam that has inundated their inboxes lately.
CEO Jay Graber Addresses Growth at SXSW
This significant update coincided with CEO Jay Graber’s keynote presentation at South by Southwest (SXSW), where he discussed the rapid growth of the decentralized social media platform, which boasts nearly 33 million active users. Sporting a t-shirt featuring the Latin phrase “mundus sine caesaribus”—interpreted as “a world without Caesars”—Graber made an interesting reference regarding Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg’s penchant for Roman-inspired fashion choices while discussing why Bluesky could be considered resilient against billionaire influence.
Zuckerberg’s shirt conveys a message of exclusivity: “All Zuck or all nothing,” while Graber’s clothing aligns with her vision: “A world without Caesars.” (Screenshot via X)
A Platform Built on User Freedom
“If a billionaire were ever to acquire or take control of Bluesky,” she explained, “or if I decided overnight to implement changes unpopular with our user base, they could easily transition away and opt for another platform.” She emphasized that this inherent openness ensures that users can migrate seamlessly while continuing their connectivity within a broader network; such flexibility promotes less acceptance of drastic alterations in user experience amidst existing ecosystems.
Navigating Monetization Strategies and Generative AI Development
Graber further elaborated on how Bluesky envisions its business framework moving forward—highlighting exploration into subscription models and monetizing developer services aimed at those creating unique experiences on the platform. Similarly, she hinted at transforming certain features like content moderation tools or personalized feeds into potential marketplace opportunities where transactions could benefit both developers and Bluesky itself.
In terms of generative artificial intelligence (AI), Graber mentioned ongoing collaborations aimed at developing comprehensive frameworks ensuring user consent regarding data usage within these models.