Bluesky: what it is, how to create an account and how to use it

Bluesky is a microblogging social network alternative for those looking for a Twitter/X-like experience, especially after the significant changes that have occurred at Twitter since its acquisition by Elon Musk.

With a decentralized approach, Bluesky has been attracting users who want more control over their data and the familiarity with Twitter dynamics they had before purchasing.

In this article, we will explain what Bluesky is, how it works and how to use the service. Stay tuned!

What is Bluesky?

Bluesky (or Bsky) is a decentralized microblogging platform, meaning that data and control over the network is not controlled by a single company or server, but is distributed across multiple independent servers. This provides users with greater autonomy and privacy, something that sets Bluesky apart from centralized social networks like Twitter.

Created by Bluesky Social, the platform is available both in the browser and in apps for iOS and Android. It stands out for using domain names as identifiers. When registering, the user receives a generic subdomain (@yourname.bsky.social) and can later verify their own domain to guarantee their identity and avoid attacks such as phishing and typosquatting.

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How to create your account on Bluesky

To use Bluesky, you can access it via your PC browser or via the smartphone app. We will explain how to access it in each of these modes.

By cell phone

By PC

1. Click “Sign Up” and the account creation screen will appear, allowing you to begin the process.

2. In step 1, you will be given the option to choose a hosting provider. Next, you will need to fill in your email address, create a secure password, and provide your date of birth.

3. In step 2, it's time to create your username. Carefully follow the on-screen instructions to choose the ideal name.

4. In step 3, choose a profile picture that represents you and set your domain, which can be customized or opt for the default subdomain (@yourname.bsky.social).

5. Then select the topics that interest you to personalize your experience.

6. With that, your account will be created, and you will be ready to explore the platform directly in the browser!

How to use Bluesky

Now let's get to know the main functions of Bluesky, which are similar to those of X/Twitter and Threads.

How to find people on Bluesky

One of the first things you’ll probably do is add people, pages, and profiles that you like. When you open the app, your timeline will already display some profiles based on the interests you entered when you created your account. However, you can also search for specific profiles.

To do this, select the magnifying glass tab in the bottom menu. On this screen, you can type the name of the profile you want to follow. When you find the profile you are interested in, simply click “follow” so that that person’s posts will appear on your main timeline.

How to view posts

On the Bluesky home screen, both in the app and in the browser, you will see your timeline. It offers two options:

Discover: Shows posts from profiles you follow, as well as others that the algorithm identifies as interesting based on your interests or that are talking about topics you follow.

Following: Only displays posts from profiles you follow.

To view your direct messages (inbox)

In the bottom menu, you will see the icon of a speech bubblesimilar to the one that appears in comic books and graphic novels. When you click on it, your direct conversations will be displayed, working like a standard messenger, similar to Instagram or Twitter.

How to view activities on Bluesky

In the bottom menu, you’ll see a bell icon, which is where you can track your account activity and receive notifications. The main notifications include: friend requests, replies, mentions, and likes.

How to edit your profile on Bluesky

Finally, you can change your profile information. In the bottom menu, click on the last icon on the right, where your profile picture is. When you click on it, you will see your information, posts, likes, etc.

At the top there will be the option Edit Profile. When you click on it, a screen will appear where you can change your photo, name and description.