Unity King

Gaming and Technology Blog

Tag: Bluesky

  • New App Flashes Brings Photo Sharing to Bluesky

    New App Flashes Brings Photo Sharing to Bluesky

    Exploring Flashes: The Bluesky-Powered Instagram Alternative

    Are you looking for a new way to share your photos and connect with friends? Bluesky, the decentralized social network, is making waves with its innovative approach to social media. Now, with apps like Flashes, you can experience a fresh take on the Instagram format, built on Bluesky‘s open protocol.

    What is Flashes?

    Flashes is an iOS app for sharing fleeting photos and videos—similar to Instagram Stories or Snapchat. However, it runs on Bluesky’s decentralized AT Protocol. As a result, users gain more control over their content and data. Additionally, Flashes filters out text-only posts to emphasize a clean, media-focused feed that syncs with your Bluesky account . Moreover, the app supports up to four images or one‑minute videos per post and integrates seamlessly with Bluesky’s DMs and comments system .

    Moreover, Flashes lets you post between 1 and 12 visuals per post—ranging from photos to videos up to three minutes long. It pulls only media content from Bluesky, thereby offering a clean, visual-first feed. As a result, users enjoy a clutter-free experience focused solely on images and short videos, without the noise of text-only content .

    Furthermore, the app includes features like photo filters and a Portfolio mode. This lets users curate which images appear on their profile .

    Additionally, all your interactions—likes, comments, reposts—sync between Flashes and Bluesky. You sign in with your Bluesky account, and posts you make also show up on Bluesky’s main app 

    Importantly, Flashes is still evolving. Current updates support up to 12 photos per post, 900-character descriptions, redesigned profiles, and smoother onboarding . The developer promises planned improvements: push notifications, bookmarks, multi-account support, Stories-style posts, and an Android version.

    Key Features of Flashes

    • Ephemeral Content: Posts disappear after 24 hours, encouraging spontaneous sharing.
    • Bluesky Integration: Built on the AT Protocol, ensuring interoperability and data ownership.
    • User-Friendly Interface: The app offers a familiar, intuitive design, making it easy to pick up and use.
    • Customizable Experience: Being part of the Bluesky ecosystem, Flashes benefits from potential future integrations and customizations.

    Why Choose Flashes?

    Here’s why Flashes could be your next favorite social app:

    • Data Ownership: With Bluesky’s decentralized model, you own your data, not the platform.
    • Fresh Perspective: Escape the algorithms and curated feeds of mainstream platforms.
    • Innovation: Be part of the future of social media with a focus on openness and interoperability.

    Getting Started with Flashes

    Ready to try it out? Here’s how:

    1. Download Flashes: Currently, Flashes is available on iOS via TestFlight.
    2. Create a Bluesky Account: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to create a Bluesky account.
    3. Start Sharing: Begin posting your photos and videos, and connect with other Bluesky users.
  • AT Protocol Powering New Social Media Ecosystem

    AT Protocol Powering New Social Media Ecosystem

    Exploring Social Apps on the AT Protocol Beyond Bluesky

    AT Protocol Unlocks Social Apps Beyond Bluesky

    The AT Protocol fuels a new wave of social apps. Developers build unique experiences, not just micro‑blogging. Explore apps that go beyond Bluesky:

    Germ & Roomy: Peer-to-peer chat apps with end-to-end encryption en.wikipedia.org

    Flashes: A photo/video-sharing app with filters and artist-curated feeds wired.com

    Spark: A TikTok–style video platform on AT Protocol with long clips, filters, and livestream plans en.wikipedia.org

    Skylight Social: A TikTok alternative backed by Mark Cuban, available in the US longportapp.com

    Streamplace: For high-quality livestreams; streams use cryptographic signatures reddit.com

    White Wind: A markdown blogging tool storing long-form content longportapp.com

    Deck.blue & Skeets: Alternative Bluesky clients for multi‑column feeds and accessibility newyorker.com

    What is the AT Protocol?

    The AT Protocol, developed by Bluesky, aims to create an open, decentralized standard for social networking. It allows for greater user control, algorithmic choice, and seamless data portability. Learn more about the protocol at the AT Protocol GitHub repository.

    Key Apps Building on the AT Protocol

    Several applications are emerging, each with its own spin on social interaction. Here are a few notable examples:

    • Bluesky: As the flagship app, Bluesky showcases the capabilities of the AT Protocol with a Twitter-like experience, focusing on decentralization and user control.
    • Other Emerging Apps: While many are still in development, various projects are exploring different niches, from specialized communities to alternative content formats. Keep an eye on the official AT Protocol blog for updates.

    Benefits of Building on the AT Protocol

    Developers are drawn to the AT Protocol for several reasons:

    • Decentralization: Offers users greater control over their data and social graph.
    • Algorithmic Choice: Enables users to select or create their own algorithms for content filtering and ranking.
    • Data Portability: Allows users to seamlessly move their data between different AT Protocol-compatible apps.
    • Open Standard: Fosters innovation and interoperability among different social platforms. The AT Protocol specifications are publicly available.
  • Bluesky’s Controversy: Missing the Bigger Picture?

    Bluesky’s Controversy: Missing the Bigger Picture?

    Bluesky Backlash: Are We Missing the Point?

    Bluesky, the decentralized social network backed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, has faced criticism recently. But is the criticism warranted, or are people missing the bigger picture? Let’s dive into the discussion.

    Understanding the Controversy

    Some argue that Bluesky hasn’t delivered on its initial promise or that its development is taking too long. There are also concerns about moderation and the potential for misuse, similar to challenges faced by other social media platforms. However, understanding the platform’s goals is essential before making judgments.

    The Promise of Decentralization

    Bluesky’s core aim is to create a decentralized social network. This means no single entity controls the platform. Instead, users can choose their algorithms and potentially host their data. This approach contrasts sharply with centralized platforms like Meta or X (formerly Twitter), where a corporation dictates the rules. Decentralization aims to give users more control and reduce the risk of censorship.

    The Challenges of Building a Decentralized Network

    Building a decentralized network is complex. It requires creating new protocols, addressing scalability issues, and ensuring effective moderation. Bluesky uses the AT Protocol, a federated social networking protocol. Creating a fully decentralized system takes time and experimentation. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) champions the importance of decentralized technologies.

    Why Decentralization Matters

    Decentralization can offer several benefits:

    • User Control: Users have more control over their data and experience.
    • Reduced Censorship: No single entity can easily censor content.
    • Innovation: Open protocols encourage innovation and experimentation.
    • Resilience: Decentralized networks are more resistant to outages and attacks.

    The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Social Media

    Bluesky represents a shift in social media. It challenges the dominance of centralized platforms and explores new models of online interaction. While it may have shortcomings or face challenges, its goals align with a broader movement towards a more open and user-controlled internet. Platforms like Mastodon also contribute to this movement.

  • Bluesky Attracts Left-Leaning Influencers, X Stays Relevant

    Bluesky Attracts Left-Leaning Influencers, X Stays Relevant

    Left-Leaning Influencers Embrace Bluesky While Staying on X

    A recent Pew Research Center study reveals that many left-leaning influencers are exploring Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, without completely abandoning X (formerly Twitter). This trend highlights the evolving social media landscape and the search for alternative platforms that align with specific values and communities.

    The Allure of Bluesky

    Bluesky, backed by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, aims to create a more open and decentralized social network. Its emphasis on algorithmic choice and user control attracts individuals seeking alternatives to the centralized control and content moderation policies of platforms like X.

    • Decentralization: Bluesky offers a decentralized model, giving users more control over their data and experience.
    • Algorithmic Choice: Users can choose different algorithms to curate their feeds, fostering a more personalized experience.
    • Community Focus: The platform emphasizes building communities around shared interests and values.

    X Remains a Key Platform

    Despite the growing interest in Bluesky, X remains a significant platform for many influencers, especially for reaching a broad audience and engaging in real-time conversations. The established user base and the platform’s role in news dissemination and public discourse keep it relevant for influencers seeking to maintain visibility and impact.

    Why Influencers Are Diversifying

    Several factors contribute to the diversification of social media platforms among influencers:

    • Content Moderation: Concerns about content moderation policies on platforms like X have led some influencers to seek alternative spaces.
    • Community Building: Platforms like Bluesky offer opportunities to build niche communities with shared values and interests.
    • Algorithmic Control: Influencers desire more control over the content that their audience sees, driving interest in platforms with algorithmic choice.
  • Bluesky to Verify Notable Users: Latest Updates

    Bluesky to Verify Notable Users: Latest Updates

    Bluesky to Verify ‘Notable’ Users

    Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, has officially launched its verification program for “notable and authentic” users. This initiative aims to enhance trust and reduce impersonation on the platform.WIRED

    🔹 New Verification System

    As of May 22, 2025, users can apply for verification through an online form. To qualify, accounts must be active, secure, authentic, and notable. This move marks a shift from Bluesky‘s earlier self-verification method, which involved linking a domain to one’s username .Bluesky

    🏛️ Trusted Verifiers

    In addition to individual verification, organizations can apply to become “Trusted Verifiers.” These entities, such as The New York Times and Wired, have the authority to verify other users on the platform. Accounts verified by these organizations will display a scalloped blue checkmark, distinguishing them from those verified directly by Bluesky .Wikipedia

    🔍 Transparency and Control

    Users can tap on a verified badge to see which organization granted the verification. Additionally, there’s an option to hide verification badges through the app’s settings, offering users control over their profile’s appearance .BlueskyThe Verge

    🧠 Community Feedback

    While the verification system aims to bolster authenticity, some users express concerns about potential status hierarchies reminiscent of legacy platforms. Bluesky addresses this by maintaining its domain-based self-verification method, allowing users to verify their identity without a blue badge .The Verge

    📌 How to Apply

    Interested users and organizations can apply for verification or Trusted Verifier status by filling out the form available on Bluesky‘s official blog.

    Why Verification Matters

    Verification is crucial for social media platforms. It helps users distinguish genuine accounts from fake ones, thereby improving trust and safety. Bluesky‘s decision to verify notable users is a step towards creating a more reliable environment for its community.

    What to Expect

    Here’s what you can anticipate from this update:

    • Enhanced Authenticity: Verified badges will help users identify authentic accounts of public figures, journalists, and other notable individuals.
    • Reduced Impersonation: The verification process will make it harder for impersonators to create fake accounts and mislead users.
    • Improved Trust: A verified platform can foster greater trust among users, encouraging more meaningful interactions and discussions.

    The Verification Process

    While Bluesky hasn’t released comprehensive details about its verification process, it’s likely to involve verifying the identity of users through official documentation or other reliable means.

    More Information

    Stay tuned for further updates from Bluesky as they roll out this new verification system. It is expected that more details about the eligibility criteria and application process will be available soon.

  • Bluesky Enters Sports Arena with NBA

    Bluesky Enters Sports Arena with NBA

    Bluesky Takes on Sports Engagement with NBA Playoff Feature

    Bluesky is making a significant push into the sports social media arena by introducing a new feature designed to enhance real-time engagement during live events, such as the NBA Playoffs. This initiative aims to attract sports enthusiasts seeking dynamic, live discussions.

    🏀 Introducing the ‘Live’ Indicator for Sports Events

    Bluesky is currently testing a feature that adds a red border and a “live” label to profile pictures when users share links to live streams, including NBA and WNBA games. Clicking on these indicators directs users to external streaming platforms like YouTube or Twitch. This approach focuses on helping users discover live events rather than hosting the streams directly, differentiating Bluesky from platforms like Twitter that have pursued exclusive streaming deals .The Verge

    🎯 Building a Dedicated Sports Community

    Recognizing the importance of sports fans, Bluesky has made sports a top priority. The platform’s ambition is to become the premier destination for real-time sports discussions. Features like curated “starter packs” allow users to easily follow their favorite teams, leagues, and sports media personalities, fostering a vibrant sports community .HoopsHypeWikipedia

    🌐 Emphasizing Decentralization and User Control

    Bluesky operates on the AT Protocol, promoting a decentralized social media experience. Users have the flexibility to choose or create algorithmic feeds tailored to their interests, including sports. This model empowers users to control their content and interactions, offering an alternative to traditional, centralized platforms .fifthestatenews.com

    With these developments, Bluesky is positioning itself as a compelling alternative for sports fans seeking real-time engagement and community-driven discussions during major events like the NBA Playoffs.

    Bluesky is making a strategic move to engage sports enthusiasts by introducing a dedicated NBA playoff feature, positioning itself as a contender to the ‘Sports Twitter’ community.

    🏀 Real-Time NBA Playoff Engagement

    During NBA playoff games, Bluesky is testing a new feature that highlights live events. When an NBA game is in progress, the NBA’s account on Bluesky will display a red border around its profile picture, accompanied by a “live” label. Clicking on this indicator redirects users to the live stream of the game, hosted on external platforms like YouTube or Twitch .TechCrunch

    This approach contrasts with Twitter’s previous strategy of securing exclusive streaming deals. Bluesky aims to serve as a discovery platform, guiding users to live sports content without hosting it directly. COO Rose Wang emphasized this direction, stating, “We aren’t trapping you in Bluesky. We want you to use Bluesky to discover what’s happening” .The VergeWikipedia

    🌐 Building a Sports–Centric Community

    Bluesky‘s initiative reflects its broader goal of fostering niche communities within its decentralized platform. By introducing features tailored to sports fans, Bluesky seeks to create a vibrant space for real-time discussions and interactions around live events. This move is part of Bluesky‘s strategy to differentiate itself from centralized platforms by offering user-driven experiences and communities.Wikipedia

    For more details on Bluesky‘s NBA playoff feature, you can read the full article on TechCrunch: TechCrunch.X (formerly Twitter)

    Enhancing the Sports Fan Experience

    Bluesky‘s new feature provides users with a tailored experience for following the NBA playoffs. Fans can now easily access scores, game highlights, and engage in conversations about their favorite teams and players.

    • Real-time updates: Stay on top of every game with live scores and crucial plays.
    • Dedicated feeds: Follow specific teams and players for a personalized experience.
    • Community engagement: Join discussions and share your thoughts with other fans.

    Why This Matters

    The competition for sports engagement is fierce. Twitter (now X) has long been the go-to platform for sports fans. Bluesky‘s move demonstrates its ambition to carve out a significant share of this market. By focusing on a specific event like the NBA playoffs, Bluesky aims to offer a more focused and engaging experience.

    Future of Sports on Bluesky

    This NBA playoff feature could be just the beginning. If successful, Bluesky might expand its sports coverage to include other major leagues and events, further solidifying its position as a contender in the social media sports landscape. Expect to see more features and integrations tailored to sports fans in the future.