Bluesky, Threads, X, and the State of Social Media in 2024.
There is no new Twitter, and that may be a good thing.
In recent years, Threads has emerged as a strong competitor in the social media realm. Since its launch about 18 months ago, the platform has surpassed 300 million users, gaining around a million new users each day. However, Threads does not aspire to be a replica of Twitter. While Twitter, at its peak, became a crucial meeting point for cultural conversation, where public figures and media shared information in real-time, its business structure and management have faced constant criticism.
Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri, leaders of Meta and Instagram respectively, have made it clear that their goal is not to emulate the chaos and vibrancy that characterized Twitter. On the contrary, they seek to create a more user-friendly environment for creators, centered on positive interactions and brand safety, reminiscent of how Facebook operates. This is reflected in the nature of the posts, which, although they may seem outdated, are an intentional aspect of the platform's design.
On the other hand, Bluesky offers a different experience, filled with dynamism and good ideas. It is a space where journalists are attracted by the freedom to share links without penalties, making it a preferred place for news enthusiasts. However, its small size may be a drawback, as it lacks the user base necessary to become a significant cultural reference.
The discussion about the absence of a new version of Twitter suggests that the future of social media will not be limited to a single space. Instead, it is likely to diversify into multiple platforms and protocols, from group chats to communities on Discord or other Meta applications. This shift could signal a paradigm change, moving away from the idea of a "social monoculture" where everyone gathered in one place.
While tools like Threads and Bluesky provide useful platforms for disseminating text-based messages, the nature of social interaction is evolving. Conversations that once occurred on Twitter are now moving to WhatsApp or Discord, where communities form around specific interests.
As online life becomes more fragmented and chaotic, it seems people are adopting a more dispersed approach, using various applications to connect according to their preferences. This process of change will be gradual, as communities and behaviors continue to adapt. Although we may lack a universal space where everyone’s attention converges, we are simultaneously witnessing the emergence of new communities and tools that facilitate innovative ways of online connection.
In conclusion, while there may not be a new Twitter bringing the masses together, the landscape is shifting towards a variety of experiences that offer opportunities for all, reflecting the complexity of real life.
