TLDR:
Bluesky’s custom algorithms redefine feeds
Labelers enable personalised moderation
Starter Packs connect niche communities
LONDON (The Thursday Times) — Bluesky, the fast-evolving social platform, is breaking new ground with features designed to let users take control. From custom algorithms to bespoke Labelers for content moderation, Bluesky is transforming the digital social experience, allowing users to shape their feeds and discover content on their terms. As it grows beyond its initial invite-only days, the platform now offers a powerful array of tools for users looking to make social media more personal, secure, and engaging.
Bluesky’s Following feed, while simple at first glance, is more than just a chronological list of posts. The settings menu offers customisation options that allow users to filter content by turning replies, reposts, or quote posts on or off. The true innovation, however, lies in Bluesky’s custom algorithms, which offer a different way to curate and engage with content. Beyond the standard “Discover” and “Popular With Friends” feeds, Bluesky allows users to create and follow algorithmic feeds tailored to specific interests or communities, making it easy for users to jump straight into content that resonates with them without having to build an extensive following list.
Custom algorithms: a new way to explore content
The custom algorithm feature is one of Bluesky’s most distinctive offerings. While other platforms generally present a single default algorithm, Bluesky’s approach empowers users to control their feed’s focus. Users can choose from a range of community-generated feeds, curated around themes from art and photography to niche hobbies or professional discussions. This modular system ensures users aren’t limited by who they follow but can instead engage with dynamic, evolving content tailored by the broader community.
By following a customised feed, users can access specific types of content quickly, such as trending memes, updates from tech communities, or even curated photo feeds. This approach not only increases content relevance but also provides a greater sense of agency, allowing users to dive into unique interests while bypassing less relevant posts.
Labelers: tailored content moderation
Bluesky’s Labelers provide a novel approach to content moderation, enabling users to personalise their feed further. Labelers are third-party tagging tools that let users identify and organise content based on their interests or moderation preferences. These can be particularly useful for filtering out specific types of content, such as sensitive topics, spam, or unwanted discussions, while enhancing visibility of preferred content, like fan groups, communities, or even sports enthusiasts.
Labelers also allow for playful engagement within Bluesky’s ecosystem. Some Labelers have gamified elements, such as text-based games that bring an interactive experience to the platform. Others help users manage complex threads, adding structure to lengthy discussions by organising content in a Reddit-like nested view. With Labelers, Bluesky hands users the tools to shape their experience, helping them navigate content that aligns with their interests and values while filtering out distractions.
Starter Packs: community-building made easy
For new users, getting started on Bluesky is straightforward, thanks to its Starter Packs. These curated collections of recommended accounts are categorised around shared themes or interests. Bluesky’s own team has created some packs, but the platform also hosts thousands of user-made packs that reflect communities ranging from artists and activists to tech enthusiasts. These packs offer newcomers an easy path to finding communities they might resonate with, making the onboarding experience more welcoming.
Because Starter Packs are still unsearchable on the platform, users often find them through external directories or recommendations from other users. This unique method of community-building reflects Bluesky’s user-driven ethos, positioning the platform as a space for organic connections rather than algorithmically curated suggestions.
Custom domains and personalised identity
Bluesky’s federated structure offers yet another layer of personalisation: custom domains. Similar to Mastodon, Bluesky runs on the AT Protocol, which allows users to personalise their usernames with unique domain names, giving them a more professional or individualistic identity online. Users can select a domain that resonates with them or purchase one from third-party services, creating a more memorable and distinctive handle.
This feature does require users to have some familiarity with domain management, as they need to set up DNS records through their domain registrar. Once set, these custom domains not only help users distinguish themselves but also add a layer of authenticity and permanence to their profile. Bluesky’s approach to identity combines the flexibility of federated networks with the professionalism often found in personal branding, making it an attractive option for content creators and professionals alike.
Enhanced security with app passwords
For those who prefer to use third-party apps with Bluesky’s API, the platform provides enhanced security through app-specific passwords. Rather than sharing primary account credentials, users can create individual passwords for each app they wish to use. This feature protects users’ main accounts while still allowing for integration with third-party clients, such as Graysky, which enhance the Bluesky experience with additional features and interfaces.
The app password feature, found under Bluesky’s Advanced Settings, offers peace of mind for users who want to explore external apps without sacrificing security. It’s an especially useful feature as the platform grows and attracts new developers looking to build on Bluesky’s API.
Pinning posts and building a personal narrative
Like other social platforms, Bluesky offers a post-pinning feature, allowing users to highlight key updates or personal statements at the top of their profile. This pinned-post feature enables users to share important information or introduce themselves, creating a personalised touch on their profile page. For influencers, creators, or community organisers, pinned posts serve as a virtual welcome mat, setting the tone for what followers can expect from their account.
Pinned posts also give Bluesky’s user profiles a sense of continuity, helping users establish an ongoing narrative. Whether it’s an announcement, a featured project, or a statement of values, the pinned post feature provides flexibility, making profiles feel more dynamic and welcoming to both new visitors and established followers.