On December 20, 2024, Bluesky announced its latest update, version 1.96, unveiling several user-friendly features to enhance the social media experience.
Founded by Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter -now X-, Bluesky is gradually gaining prominence in social networking, as a chunk of users favour the app over X citing Elon Musk’s controversial hot takes.
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Key features of update 1.96
The highlight of this update is the introduction of the Mentions tab, which allows users to track notifications related to their mentions easily.
This new feature simplifies how users engage with conversations and replies where they have been tagged, creating a more streamlined experience.
Users can now tap the bell icon to view all interactions in one convenient location.
Another significant addition is the username protection feature for those who create custom domains.
This allows users to reserve their original .bsky.social usernames when verifying their accounts, preventing others from claiming them. This mainly benefits users with a brand or identity on the platform.
One user remarked, “I wish this feature had been available when I established my custom domain; I had to create an alternate account to safeguard my old username.”
This feedback emphasises the community’s wish for more user-friendly features.
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Enhancing user engagement
Bluesky’s updates come as the platform is experiencing significant growth, recently surpassing 25 million users.
Features like the Mentions tab and username protection are expected to boost user engagement and retention.
Users can customise how replies are displayed, choosing between linear and threaded formats, and filter responses based on various criteria.
These enhancements improve usability and foster a more interactive environment for discussions.
As Bluesky continues to innovate and adapt, it positions itself as a strong contender against established platforms like Meta’s Threads. With plans for a subscription model and further developments on the horizon, Bluesky is poised for continued growth in the ever-evolving world of social media.