Bluesky Adds Trending Topics: Catching Up wiht the Competition
Bluesky, the fast-growing decentralized social network boasting over 25 million users, announced the launch of it’s highly anticipated trending topics feature on Christmas Day. The feature, currently available in beta, is rolling out globally on both desktop and mobile platforms, marking a notable step in enhancing user experience and mirroring functionalities found on established competitors.
On the desktop version, users can find trending topics conveniently located in the right-hand sidebar. Mobile users can access the same facts by tapping the search button.”this is just the first version of the feature,” a Bluesky spokesperson stated, hinting at future improvements and expansions. “We will improve it along the way.”
Currently,trending topics are only available in English. Users who wish to disable the feature can easily do so by navigating to Settings > Content and Media and unchecking the “Enable trending topics” option. Importantly, Bluesky notes that your existing muted words will carry over to the trending topics feed, ensuring a personalized and controlled experience.
The introduction of trending topics by Bluesky comes after third-party clients, such as Greysky, already integrated similar functionality last year. This highlights the vibrant and innovative ecosystem surrounding the platform. While competitors like Threads rolled out trending topics to all U.S. users in March 2024 and began testing in Japan in October, Bluesky’s global beta launch demonstrates a broader, more immediate reach.
catching Up, But with a Global Twist
The addition of trending topics is a strategic move for Bluesky, bringing it more in line with established social media platforms. While the feature’s arrival is later than some competitors, its immediate global rollout offers a unique advantage, potentially attracting users seeking a wider range of perspectives and trends beyond regional limitations. The company’s commitment to continuous betterment suggests that this is just the beginning of a more robust and feature-rich platform.
Bluesky’s Trending Topics: A Global Take on Social Circles
[Host]
Welcome back to World Today News. I’m joined today with specialist Michael Thompson, an expert on decentralized social media platforms. Michael, Bluesky recently announced the release of trending topics. It seems like a feature everyone expects these days, but what makes Bluesky’s approach interesting?
[Michael Thompson]
Thanks for having me. Yes, trending topics are practically a social media staple now, but Bluesky’s timing and approach are noteworthy.[1]
They launched globally straight out of the gate as a beta, which is quite different from competitors like Threads who rolled these out regionally. That means Bluesky users worldwide can promptly see what’s buzzing, irrespective of location, perhaps offering a more diverse and international outlook.[Host]
That’s a captivating point. So they’re emphasizing global connection from the start. Though, I noticed they mentioned it’s only in English for now? Doesn’t that limit the true global reach?
[Michael Thompson]
They acknowledged that in their proclamation [1]. It is a limitation, though understandable given the complexity of localized trending algorithms. It suggests they’re focused on refining the feature before expanding languages, which points to a measured and thoughtful rollout.
[Host]
Understood. It also seems like they’re focused on user control. The article mentions users can disable the feature entirely and their existing muted words carry over.
[Michael Thompson]
You’re exactly right. [1] Bluesky’s upfront commitment to personalized user experience with these control options is commendable and sets them apart. Especially considering the frequently enough algorithm-driven nature of trending topics.
[Host]
Last question, Michael. Do you think this move by Bluesky helps them catch up with platforms like Threads or is it too little too late?
[Michael Thompson]
Catch-up is an interesting way to put it.While late to the party, Bluesky’s global focus right from the start might give them an edge. [1]
They’re clearly acknowledging the desires of their user base and aiming for continuous enhancement. This isn’t simply mimicking competitors; it feels like Bluesky is defining its own path within the space.
[Host]
Thank you, Michael, for your insights. Let’s see what other interesting developments emerge from Bluesky in the new year.
