Bluesky takes on X with long-form content
What's the story
Bluesky, the decentralized social networking start-up, has launched a new version of its app with long-form content capabilities. The update integrates with Standard.site, a community project that allows for the creation of long-form content on the same protocol as Bluesky. This means users can now access more than just microblogs or short posts, they can read articles, blog posts, and newsletters from across AT Protocol-powered apps.
Enhanced accessibility
Long-form content from Standard.site
The integration with Standard.site opens up a world of content for Bluesky users, including articles, blog posts, and newsletters from apps like Leaflet, pckt, and Offprint. These platforms are designed for independent writers and publishers who want to retain ownership of their content while expanding its reach across the open web. Initially, these long-form posts will be displayed as dynamic link cards, an enhanced preview, but Bluesky promises to improve the functionality over time.
Strategic expansion
Bluesky's growth moves
Bluesky's long-form content expansion is its second major growth move, following an integration with Germ in February. This allowed users to launch a private messaging service directly from the Bluesky app. By building its tech infrastructure alongside its social networking client app, Bluesky can leverage other apps and services on the AT Protocol. This benefits third parties as they can access distribution through Bluesky's network of around 44.5 million registered users.
Plugin integration
Integration with WordPress
WordPress recently announced a plugin that lets any WordPress site publish to the Atmosphere, just like Bluesky. The integration also used Standard.site's lexion records, making your blog data on the AT Protocol itself rather than just a link shared on an app like Bluesky. This further emphasizes Bluesky's vision for an open social web where data is freely distributable and accessible from any client.
App enhancements
Other features in the latest version of Bluesky
The latest version of Bluesky (v1.122) also comes with a host of other features, including an updated GIF picker and photo viewer. It also offers expanded moderation labeling at the account level and fixes a bug that was silently dropping some iOS video uploads. This update further improves user experience on the platform, making it more efficient and user-friendly for all its users.