Bluesky, the Twitter alternative created by Jack Dorsey, is still in its invite-only phase, but the platform’s leaders are sharing more about their vision for the open-source platform. In a recent blog post, CEO Jay Graber revealed that Bluesky aims to create a “marketplace of algorithms” that will give users control over how content is filtered and sorted.
Graber explained that an open marketplace of algorithms will provide developers with the freedom to experiment with and publish algorithms that anyone can use. For users, the ability to customize their feed will give them back control of their most valuable resource: their attention.
Originally, Bluesky was a Twitter-backed side project designed to create a new, decentralized standard for social media platforms. However, it officially broke off from Twitter in 2021 and has since joined the ranks of upstart Twitter clones that have sprung up following Elon Musk’s takeover of the company.
The idea of an algorithmic marketplace is still in its early stages, but Bluesky is currently working on feed APIs for developers, as well as a “feed selection system” that will eventually allow users to browse third-party feeds they can integrate into their timelines.
It’s worth noting that Dorsey has long been a proponent of “algorithmic choice” and even raised the idea of an algorithm marketplace while he was still running Twitter. In his post, Graber said that allowing users to choose their own algorithm, including a chronological feed, could address “backlash against the perceived algorithmic manipulation of people’s timelines.”
Bluesky’s focus on creating an algorithmic marketplace is a unique approach to social media platforms. Currently, most platforms use algorithms to curate content for users based on their interests and behavior. However, this can often lead to an echo chamber effect, where users are only exposed to content that reinforces their existing beliefs and biases.
By allowing users to choose their own algorithm, Bluesky is attempting to give users more control over their online experience. This could help to combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation, as users would be able to curate their own feeds based on a variety of sources and perspectives.
Bluesky’s approach also has the potential to foster innovation in the development of algorithms. By creating an open marketplace, developers will be able to experiment with new algorithms and share them with others. This could lead to the creation of more diverse and effective algorithms that better serve users’ needs.
Overall, Bluesky’s vision for an algorithmic marketplace is an exciting development in the world of social media platforms. By giving users more control over their online experience and fostering innovation in algorithm development, Bluesky has the potential to create a more diverse and inclusive online community.