As controversies continue to swirl around Twitter, Elon Musk, and moderation policies, Bluesky Social Network Promises Open Algorithm. Bluesky, headed by early Twitter pioneer Jay Graber, aims to create an open and transparent platform focused on user control and healthy discussions.
Bluesky recently entered its first phase of testing with a limited group of test users. In an interview with TechBeat, Graber highlighted how Bluesky plans to differentiate itself from Twitter and other social networks.
An Open and Transparent Algorithm
At the core of Bluesky is its open-source algorithm that will determine how posts are amplified, recommended, and filtered on the platform.
“We want to move away from opaque, centralized algorithms optimized for engagement and ad revenue,” said Graber. “Our algorithm will be transparent, open to input from the community, and designed to improve the quality of discussions.”
Bluesky will take a modular approach, allowing users to mix and match different recommendation modules developed by the company and third parties. The default algorithm will highlight relevant, thoughtful perspectives and limit toxic content.
Users will also be able to customize their feeds and recommendations. “We’ll empower people to shape the platform to fit their needs and preferences,” Graber added.
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A Focus on Healthy Discussions
In addition to its algorithm, Bluesky wants to rethink how online discussions operate.
The platform will allow communities to develop norms and guidelines that fit their interests and values. Moderation roles may include appointed community leaders, democratically elected representatives, and general community votes.
“We want to move away from central top-down control. Our goal is for communities to self-determine what constitutes healthy discussions for them,” said Graber.
At the individual level, users will have robust tools to manage their privacy, block content, and accounts, and control what reaches their feeds and notifications.
Bluesky is also exploring innovations like reputation systems, limited temporary accounts, and user-selected moderators to improve discussion quality.
“It’s an ambitious vision that will involve a lot of experimentation,” admitted Graber. “But we believe it’s possible to facilitate engaging but healthier online conversations.”
A Network Compatible with Twitter
While differentiated in its approach, Bluesky will remain compatible with Twitter through an open standard called AT Protocol. This will allow users on one platform to follow or interact with accounts on the other.
“We don’t see this as a zero-sum game. If we succeed in creating a better, safer social experience, everyone wins,” said Graber.
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The recent controversies plaguing Twitter make Bluesky’s goal of empowering users and providing transparency even more relevant, Graber noted.
However, successfully shifting social network incentives and culture remains challenging. Graber emphasized that Bluesky is still early stages and faces plenty of unknowns in realizing its vision.
For now, the company plans to gradually expand its testing user base and incorporate feedback. Wider public access is still some time away.
“We know meaningful change will take time,” concluded Graber. “But we believe it’s possible to have online communities that bring out the best in people.”
