Bluesky's user trends mirror larger social media platforms: Study
What's the story
Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform often seen as an alternative to X, is exhibiting user trends similar to those on larger platforms. This includes the case of a handful of users driving most interactions. Despite its unique features like feed customization and left-leaning political stance, the platform's dynamics seem to reflect those of other major social media sites.
Research findings
Study reveals user interaction patterns
A study by researchers from the University of Zurich, Switzerland, published in the journal PLOS One, has shown that divisions among users can exist even on a platform that is otherwise aligned. The study examined Bluesky's trajectory from its launch in February 2023 until May 2024 when it had approximately 5.7 million users. The researchers looked at its network structure and polarization trends, and the political leanings of users.
User dynamics
Network structure resembles larger platforms
The researchers concluded that despite its novel features, Bluesky's network structure is very similar to existing and larger social media sites. The study also noted that spikes in new user sign-ups were often correlated with news about X.
Political trends
Political leanings and user polarization on Bluesky
Despite its left-leaning stance—with over 60% of links shared among users leading to left-leaning websites—Bluesky has shown signs of user polarization. The researchers found that posts on Israel-Palestine relations, were largely neutral prior to the October 7 attacks but skewed toward pro-Palestine afterwards. This suggests divisions among users can occur even in networks that are otherwise politically aligned.