Bluesky, the once invite-only social network that emerged as a decentralized alternative to Twitter, has been quietly revolutionizing the way we interact online. With a user base now exceeding 15 million, Bluesky offers features that are both familiar and entirely unique. While you can pin posts, send direct messages, and share videos like on other platforms, Bluesky’s standout capabilities, like custom algorithms, moderation tools, and domain personalization, give users unprecedented control over their experience.
Here’s a guide to unlocking the best of Bluesky and making the platform truly yours.
Mastering the Basics
Following Feed Customization
Bluesky’s Following Feed goes beyond the traditional chronological timeline. You can toggle the display of:
- Replies
- Reposts
- Quote Posts
- Custom Feed Samples
To adjust these settings:
- Navigate to Settings > Following Feed Preferences and toggle what you’d like to see.
This lets you curate a feed that’s as noisy or focused as you want.
Customizing Threads
Engaging with reply threads is an essential part of social platforms, and Bluesky lets you tailor this experience:
- Thread Preferences (found under Settings) allows you to sort replies by:
- Oldest
- Newest
- Most Liked
- Poster’s Roulette (a random shuffle)
Want nested threads like Reddit? Toggle Threaded Mode for an experimental view that organizes replies hierarchically.
Dive Into Custom Feeds
Bluesky’s custom algorithmic feeds are game-changing. Unlike a one-size-fits-all feed, these feeds allow you to discover content based on specific interests.
How to Access Custom Feeds:
- Tap the three-line menu in the upper left corner.
- Select Feeds.
- Browse or search for feeds like:
- Cat pics feed for endless feline joy.
- My Bangers to revisit your most successful posts.
- To save a feed: Open it, tap the three dots, and select Save to my feeds.
For quick access, pin it to your home screen using the Pin to Home option.
Find Your Tribe With Starter Packs
Starter Packs are curated lists of accounts centered around themes or interests. While not searchable in-app (yet), you can find Starter Packs through:
- Community-shared links.
- Directories like this one.
Creating a Starter Pack:
- Visit Bluesky’s instructions for guidance.
- Share your pack with the community for others to explore and follow.
Personalize Your Identity With Custom Domains
Bluesky operates on the AT Protocol, enabling you to customize your handle with a personal domain. Imagine owning a handle like @yourname.cooldomain.com.
Setting Up a Custom Domain:
- Go to Settings > Change Handle.
- Choose I have my own domain and copy the provided DNS value.
- Add a TXT record with this value to your domain’s DNS settings (via GoDaddy, Squarespace, etc.).
- Return to Bluesky and verify your domain.
This unique feature gives you a branded identity while still allowing tags and mentions to function seamlessly with your new handle.
Enhanced Moderation With Labelers
Bluesky’s Labelers are third-party moderation tools that categorize accounts and content. Labels can filter unwanted posts or highlight specific interests.
Examples of Labeler Use Cases:
- Hide phobia triggers.
- Display sports team fandoms.
- Moderate crypto scams or NSFW content.
Some Labelers even enable mini-games, like text-based RPGs.
Using a Labeler:
- Find a Labeler page and select Subscribe to Labeler.
- Customize visibility:
- Off: Disables the label.
- Show badge: Displays the label.
- Hide: Blocks labeled content/accounts.
Adjust your preferences anytime under Settings > Moderation.
Maximize API Potential With App Passwords
Third-party apps like Graysky make Bluesky even more versatile, and App Passwords ensure secure integration.
Creating an App Password:
- Go to Settings > App Passwords under Advanced.
- Tap Add App Password, name it, and toggle DM access if needed.
- Use the generated password in the third-party app.
This allows apps to interact with Bluesky without risking your primary password.
Showcase Key Posts With Pinning
Pinning posts works similarly to other platforms. To pin a post:
- Tap the three dots below the post and select Pin to your profile.
Pinned posts appear at the top of your profile for easy access.
The Future of Social Media?
Bluesky’s features, like custom feeds and Labelers, represent a shift in how we interact online. The focus on user customization and moderation transforms social media from a broadcast medium into a personal, manageable space. As Bluesky continues to evolve, the platform is setting new standards for transparency, creativity, and control.
Ready to take charge of your social feed? Dive into Bluesky and start crafting your perfect online space today.