Bluesky, the Twitter-like social network founded by Jack Dorsey, has opened its doors to the public, allowing anyone to create an account and join the platform. Previously, users needed an invitation to join Bluesky, but the invite-only period allowed the site to develop moderation tools and other features. Although Bluesky shares similarities with Twitter, it doesn't currently offer direct messaging between users. However, it does provide more customization options, although it remains to be seen if users will find them appealing.

The default setting on Bluesky displays posts from accounts users follow in a linear timeline, but there is also the option to switch to algorithm-driven timelines created by other users. The platform handles its own moderation, but it also plans to enable users to combine alternative moderation schemes. Bluesky's long-term plan is to allow users to transfer their friends, followers, and other data to competing social networks, aiming to be the last social account users will ever need to create.

However, achieving this level of interoperability between social networks is not straightforward. The technical term for this is "federation," and different sites can federate in various ways. Mastodon and similar microblogging sites, including Meta's Threads service, use a federation algorithm called ActivityPub, which allows users to move between them. Threads has already started experimenting with sharing posts to Mastodon and other services using ActivityPub. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg expressed optimism about this interoperability, stating that it would give users more choice in how they interact and help content reach a wider audience.

On the other hand, Bluesky has adopted a different federation algorithm called the Authenticated Transfer Protocol, making it the only service currently using it. The protocol's "frequently asked questions" page argues that ActivityPub is cumbersome for transferring accounts and lacks important features.

Bluesky's move to open its platform to the public marks an important milestone for the social network. With its unique approach to customization and plans for interoperability, it aims to offer users a different experience from other social media platforms. As the platform continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how successful it will be in attracting and retaining users in a highly competitive market.