What Next TBD | The Post-Election Social Media Wars
Nov 29, 2024
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Will Oremus, a technology writer at the Washington Post, dives into the shifting social media landscape after recent elections. He explores the rise of Bluesky as an alternative to the transformed X, examining its unique features and user dynamics. The conversation highlights the challenges facing new platforms, user migration towards engaging political discourse, and innovative moderation strategies. Oremus also sheds light on the competitive rivalry with Threads and the fragmentation of online communities based on political ideologies.
Blue Sky's rapid growth reflects users' desire for a more community-driven platform, reminiscent of earlier Twitter dynamics.
Elon Musk's ownership of X has led to a significant political discourse shift, favoring Republican voices over Democratic engagement.
Deep dives
Growth and Community Dynamics of Blue Sky
Blue Sky has experienced rapid growth, nearly doubling its user base within weeks post-election, rising from 13 million to at least 22 million users. The platform's appeal lies in its chronological feed and sense of community, reminiscent of an earlier Twitter experience where users felt connected to a smaller group without interference from bosses or excessive commercialization. However, as the platform grows, maintaining the intimate, carefree vibe becomes a challenge, reflecting a tension between expansion and community essence. Despite these changes, Blue Sky retains attributes that attract users seeking a more casual and engaging social media experience.
Shift of Political Discourse on Social Media
Elon Musk's acquisition of X has led to a noticeable shift in political discourse, with reports indicating that Republican voices are gaining prominence while Democratic accounts face declining visibility. Studies suggest that tweets from Republican figures increasingly go viral, in stark contrast to those from Democrats, highlighting a transformation in the platform’s user engagement dynamics. Major public figures from the Biden administration also reported a drop in engagement, provoking discussions around X's evolving atmosphere that many perceive as increasingly conservative. This shift raises questions about how the platform's policies may be influencing political expression and user retention.
Content Moderation Strategies and User Control
Blue Sky's approach to content moderation is proactive, having quadrupled its moderation team in response to rising user numbers, which reflects a commitment to cultivating a safe platform. Unlike its competitors, Blue Sky emphasizes user control features such as extensive blocking options, which prevent unwanted interactions and empower users to manage their online experience better. This contrast with the shifting policies on X, particularly the changes in blocking capabilities, has attracted many former users who prioritize safety and moderation. The self-moderation tools, including shared block lists, bolster user satisfaction and engagement, enhancing the platform's appeal amid growing concerns over content management.
Whatever X is, it ain’t the Twitter so many users fell in love with. Since the election, Bluesky has been on the rise, but it’s still only a fraction of the number of users on Twitter—at its peak or even now—or even fellow upstart Threads.
Is Bluesky set to take over the role Twitter used to play, or is it just one of many networks in a Balkanized social media landscape?
Guest: Will Oremus, a technology writer for the Washington Post
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