Gairika Mitra
Decentralized social media platform Bluesky welcomed one million new users within three days of Brazil banning its rival X.
BlueSky posted on X and praised Brazil for setting an example for new user signups. The app also ranked first place on the free iPhone app chart in Brazil on Tuesday.
Bluesky was co-founded and initiated by former Twitter (now called X) CEO Jack Dorsey, though he left the company in May 2024. The platform’s functionalities are a lot similar to X — it allows users to post text up to 300 characters, share images, and repost.
The timing of new users signing up is particularly noteworthy. It comes on the heels of Brazil‘s decision to ban X due to concerns over the spread of misinformation and non-compliance with the country’s regulations, particularly concerning the elections and public health. This prompted many Brazilian users to seek alternative platforms.
The Brazilian government had issued a series of warnings and fines on X for not adhering to these rules. Authorities expressed dismay over the platform’s role in spreading fake news and facilitating anti-democratic activities. The ban also gave rise to concerns over the balance between curbing misinformation and protecting the freedom of speech.
On X, M-U-R-C-H (@TheEXECUTlONER_), a political spectator, commentator, and meme enthusiast, criticized the ban harshly. “With the outrageous banning of X by Brazil, it is time to end ALL foreign aid and assistance to them. Who agrees with this idea from Utah Senator Mike Lee?” he said.
Podcaster Lex Fridman (@lexfridman) echoed the former’s stance and said he was disturbed by the entire process.
Millions of Brazilian users were left without access to X. However, amid the chaos, Bluesky’s CEO Jay Graber was elated. “Good job Brazil, you made the right choice,” she said.
X, meanwhile is still locked in a battle with Brazil’s Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes due to the platform’s refusal to block certain accounts which the Justice claimed was spreading disinformation.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva last posted on X on August 30, redirecting his followers to platforms like Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Threads.
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Gairika holds positions in BTC. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
