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What Next TBD | The Post-Election Social Media Wars

Nov 29, 2024
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.
30:40

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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