David Gilbert, a Wired reporter based in Cork, and Vittoria Elliott, who covers social media trends, dive into the exodus from X to platforms like Threads and Blue Sky. They explore the implications of this migration, questioning what happens to X when those seeking moderation leave. The duo discusses the rise of extreme views and the challenges of engaging with far-right narratives on these platforms. Lastly, they reflect on how social media fragmentation alters community interaction and political discourse, suggesting a future where smaller, trust-based apps could thrive.
The acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk has led to polarized user experiences, prompting many left-leaning users to migrate to alternatives like Blue Sky and Threads.
The fragmentation of online communities into smaller, like-minded groups raises concerns about increased polarization, as users seek platforms that align with their values and preferences.
Deep dives
Changes in Social Media Landscape
The acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk has significantly transformed the platform, altering its content moderation policies and resulting in a more polarized environment. Many users feel that the replatforming of extremist voices and Musk's prioritization of his posts has made the site less appealing and, in the opinion of some critics, toxic. Consequently, there has been a notable migration of users, especially those leaning left, toward emerging platforms such as Blue Sky and Threads, which are perceived to be less combative and more community-focused. This shift raises questions about the long-term viability of Twitter, now known as X, as a central hub for discussion and news.
User Experience on New Platforms
Users favor platforms like Blue Sky for their more authentic interaction, finding them less triggering and toxic compared to X. The design of Blue Sky allows users to engage in conversations without the constant distractions and aggressive content that characterized their experiences on X. As new accounts surge on Blue Sky, users appreciate a return to a less frenetic environment reminiscent of early social media, where they could connect with like-minded individuals. This shift suggests that a user-friendly interface that prioritizes genuine interactions may be essential for the success of newer platforms.
Fragmentation of User Communities
The exodus of users from X points to a fragmentation of online communities as people seek platforms that align with their values and preferences. This division can lead to smaller, like-minded groups forming rather than a single, unified online space for communication, which could foster greater polarization. Notably, right-wing users may still gravitate towards X to maintain their echo chamber, indicating that fragmentation may not benefit every user group equally. As new, purpose-built platforms emerge, the landscape of social media may see further shifts, where users are grouped by shared interests and ideologies rather than general engagement.
Impact of Ownership on Social Media Dynamics
Elon Musk's ownership of X has prompted discussions on the broader implications of billionaire influence over social media spaces, particularly regarding content moderation and user experience. With fewer resources devoted to moderation on X, users have expressed concerns about misinformation and the overall safety of the platform. In contrast, newer platforms like Blue Sky are perceived as emerging spaces for healthier communication and community formation, challenging traditional models of engagement established by giants like X and Facebook. This evolving dynamic suggests that the identity and direction of social media may increasingly hinge on the philosophies and management styles of their owners.
Since the election, a number of organizations, journalists, and left-leaning X users have announced their intentions to leave the town square formerly known as Twitter and move over to Threads or Bluesky. Leah talks with WIRED reporters David Gilbert and Vittoria Elliott about what these X-pats will find on the newer platforms, what happens to X when there are no more libs to troll, and just how fragmented online communities are now.
Leah Feiger is @LeahFeiger. David Gilbert is @DaithaiGilbert. Vittoria Elliott is @telliotter. Write to us at politicslab@WIRED.com. Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here.