Bluesky, a burgeoning social media platform, announced a significant update at the South by Southwest (SXSW) 2025 in Austin, Texas. During the event, Bluesky detailed its latest app update via version 1.99, which introduces groundbreaking features aimed at making the internet "less toxic." This update, shared through Bluesky's official page, embodies the company's commitment to providing users with more control over their platform experience.
The latest update highlights new direct messaging (DM) management features and tools prioritizing user privacy. These enhancements allow any user to message others on the platform, thereby broadening communication capabilities. By focusing on privacy, Bluesky aims to offer a safer and more user-friendly environment for its rapidly growing user base. As of early December, the platform boasted over 24 million users, with an astonishing average of one million signups per day.
In addition to DM improvements, Bluesky has increased the video posting limit from one minute to three minutes. This change allows users to share longer multimedia content, enhancing their ability to engage creatively with their audience. This feature is part of Bluesky's broader strategy to diversify content types available on the platform and cater to varied user preferences.
Bluesky also teased the development of a subscription service named the 'Bluesky+' program. This upcoming program promises to deliver premium features, further enhancing user experiences and providing additional value to those seeking advanced functionalities. Although specific details about 'Bluesky+' remain under wraps, the announcement has generated considerable anticipation among users eager for more personalized and enriched interactions on the platform.