Bluesky to Limit Replies to Followers Only

Bluesky to Introduce Enhanced Reply Controls

Bluesky, the emerging social network, is preparing to empower its users with greater control over post interactions. A new feature allowing users to restrict replies to only their followers is confirmed to be in development.

New Settings Coming Soon

According to Bluesky developer Paul Frazee, the platform will implement a “followers only” setting for reply access. Furthermore, users will be able to establish default reply settings for all their posts.

This means individuals can, for example, automatically limit replies to only those who follow them, streamlining their experience.

Differentiating from Competitors

These forthcoming changes are designed to distinguish Bluesky from major competitors like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta’s Threads. The platform aims to offer a unique user experience.

Existing Reply Options on Other Platforms

X currently provides users with several reply control options, including “Everyone,” “Accounts you follow,” “Verified accounts,” and “Only accounts you mention.” Posting within specific Communities also restricts visibility.

Threads offers a more concise selection: “Anyone,” “Profiles you follow,” and “Mentioned only.”

Bluesky’s Current Reply Settings

Until now, Bluesky has mirrored some of its rivals’ functionality. Users could limit replies to “Everybody,” “Nobody,” “Mentioned Users,” and “Followed Users.” These options can also be combined with user-created lists.

Reducing Virality and Context Collapse

The introduction of a “followers only” reply option represents a novel approach. Frazee suggests this feature could lessen the intensity of posts going viral.

It also aims to mitigate “context collapse,” a situation where a post’s reach extends beyond its intended audience, potentially leading to misinterpretation or confusion.

Visibility Remains Unaffected

It’s important to note that this change will only affect who can respond to a post, not who can view it. Posts will remain visible to the same audience as before.

User Demand and Future Protocol Updates

The “followers only” reply option has been a frequently requested feature by Bluesky users. Discussions regarding this functionality date back to December 2023, with Frazee engaging directly with users on the topic.

The AT Protocol, the foundation of Bluesky, will also be updated to fully support this feature in the future.