Highlights:

  • Bluesky is dedicated to decentralization without the use of blockchain or cryptocurrency, even though its services are comparable to those that are currently available.
  • Bluesky also offers custom feeds that allow customers to personalize their algorithmic experience and federation capabilities that allow developers and people to self-host.

Decentralized social network platform Bluesky raised USD 15 million in the recent funding round to widen its user pool, improve developer ecosystem, and continue developing features that emphasize user safety and empowerment.

Bluesky is a decentralized social network based on the AT Protocol that allows users more control over their online experiences. It was founded in 2019 by Jack Dorsey, former CEO of Twitter Inc. In contrast to other social networks, the platform is made to let users select their own algorithms and moderation methods, departing from conventional centralized control.

Bluesky is dedicated to decentralization without any use of blockchain or cryptocurrency, even though its services are comparable to those that are currently available. The company’s AT Protocol allows consumers to maintain control over their data while facilitating an ecosystem of services and apps that can work together. Additionally, the method enables developers to build new applications and tools on top of the current network, which could promote social media innovation.

Blockchain Capital led the Series A round, joined by Alumni Ventures, True Ventures LP, SevenX Ventures Ltd., Amir Shevat of Darkmode Capital, and Kubernetes co-creator Joe Beda. As part of the deal, Kinjal Shah, a partner at Blockchain Capital, will join Bluesky’s board.

Bluesky will use some of the capital to create a subscription model for better video uploads or profile customization like colors and avatar frames, in addition to growing its user base, improving its developer capabilities, and adding features.

“Bluesky will always be free to use — we believe that information and conversation should be easily accessible, not locked down,” Bluesky stated. “We won’t uprank accounts simply because they’re subscribing to a paid tier.”

The company shared information regarding their features and developments since their last funding round in July 2023 along with the funding news.

From an invite-only app with one million users, the platform has grown to over 13 million users worldwide, reaching nations including the United States, Brazil, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Bluesky also offers custom feeds that allow customers to personalize their algorithmic experience and federation capabilities that allow developers and people to self-host.

Through the introduction of Ozone, an open-source moderating tool, and investments in anti-harassment tools, it has also concentrated on improving user safety. Additional noteworthy changes include the addition of video functionality, direct messaging, and collaborations with businesses like Namecheap and Buffer to increase its integration potential.