Bluesky, the decentralized social network positioning itself as a Twitter alternative, has rolled out a significant update, allowing users to access posts without the need for a login. This move marks a pivotal shift in user accessibility, enabling individuals to explore the platform’s content through shared links, fostering a more open and inclusive environment.
While the ability to view posts without logging in is a progressive step, creating an account and posting still requires an invitation. However, Bluesky’s recent update goes beyond mere visibility adjustments. Publishers now have the capability to link to or embed Bluesky posts in blogs, broadening the reach of the platform’s content. Additionally, users can easily share posts in individual or group chats, enhancing the overall user experience and promoting seamless content distribution.
A notable feature accompanying this update is the introduction of the “Logged-out visibility” setting. Bluesky users can navigate to Settings > Moderation > Logged-out visibility to toggle this option, controlling whether their posts are visible to users who are not logged in. It’s a nuanced approach to privacy, allowing individuals to curate their online presence according to their preferences.
However, it’s important to note that this visibility setting applies exclusively to Bluesky’s website and app. The company has cautioned that third-party clients may not adhere to this toggle, potentially displaying posts regardless of the user’s preferences. To ensure a more controlled sharing experience, users can opt to make their profiles private, limiting their posts’ visibility.
In conjunction with these functional updates, Bluesky’s CEO Jay Graber revealed a new visual identity for the platform—a butterfly emoji replacing the generic blue sky and clouds logo. This change is not merely aesthetic; Graber emphasizes that the butterfly symbolizes Bluesky’s mission to transform social media into something new. The organic adoption of the butterfly emoji by users as a representation of their Bluesky handles has become a meaningful element of the platform’s identity.
