Hakan Nural/Anadolu via Getty ImagesEvery time I think social media is done evolving, something shakes things up. Twitter was the go-to for years, with algorithms steering what we saw. But Bluesky has arrived, offering something different -- an open-source, decentralized network that puts control back into users' hands.Now that it's open to all, I've spent time exploring how it works, and it's a breath of fresh air for those of us looking to own our digital identities.What exactly is Bluesky?Bluesky runs on the AT Protocol, and while that sounds technical, it boils down to this: Bluesky lets you carry your social graph -- essentially, your connections -- with you across apps that adopt the protocol. Unlike Mastodon, though, Bluesky's AT Protocol doesn't currently connect with ActivityPub, the standard behind the Fediverse and the Mastodon distributed social network. That means Bluesky remains a unique, self-contained ecosystem.Also: How to use Bluesky Social: Everything to know about the popular X alternativeWhile Mastodon and Threads can talk to each other via ActivityPub, Bluesky is in its own lane for now. However, you can use Openvibe, a new mobile client, to participate on Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads simultaneously, with a single feed.Here's what else to know about it.1. It's growing fastBluesky's growth has been rapid, with more than a million new users joining since the recent US election. The platform now has over 15 million users, a sign that people are increasingly drawn to alternatives to Elon Musk's X.Bluesky's popularity has even pushed it to the top of Apple's free app charts, ranking ahead of apps like Threads, ChatGPT, and TikTok. With new features rolling out regularly, Bluesky has something fresh to offer in a landscape full of algorithm-heavy platforms.2. No algorithm tinkering hereIf you're tired of algorithms deciding what you see, Bluesky might be the relief you're looking for. Like Mastodon, Bluesky has no central algorithm feeding you posts based on some popularity contest. Instead, what you see comes from genuine engagement: posts gain visibility based on how many users like and "re-skeet" them (Bluesky's version of a retweet).For me, having a feed that isn't manipulated to prioritize certain posts over others is refreshing.3. Feeds, Lists, and Starter Packs explainedFeeds: Lists: Lists serve as versatile tools for grouping accounts, which can be used in various ways. You can create lists of people to follow around specific themes, such as industry experts or news sources, or organize content on your profile by interest. Lists can also function as moderation lists (mod lists), allowing you to track or block specific users. Furthermore, Bluesky lets you publicize these lists directly in your profile, helping others see recommended accounts to follow or understand who you've blocked for safety and moderation purposes.Starter Packs: Introduced in June 2024, Starter Packs are curated collections of up to 150 recommended users and up to three custom feeds. They are designed to help new users quickly find and follow accounts and feeds that match their interests. Existing users can create and share these packs, providing newcomers with a personalized onboarding experience. For instance, a Starter Pack might focus on tech enthusiasts, LGBTQ+ communities, or political discussions, allowing users to immerse themselves in relevant conversations from the outset.4. The 'Nuclear Block' gives you total controlBluesky's blocking feature is quite strict. Users refer to it as a "Nuclear Block" because it effectively erases any connection between you and the blocked user in the digital space. Once blocked, they won't see your posts, not even if they quote you. Additionally, Bluesky allows you to remove any mentions of yourself from conversations, as well as your quotes from other users' posts.This creates a clean solution for managing conflicts, encouraging users to resolve issues without dragging them out in comment threads. If you're curious about who is blocking you or if you're on a moderation list, you can check this information using clearsky.app, an independently operated service.5. You get customizable handles for verificationBluesky's approach to verification is a bit different, too. By default, you get a handle on bsky.social, but you can take it a step further by registering your own domain as a handle. It's like having a verified badge without the badge -- an easy way to establish credibility and create a unique identity on the platform. Setting it up is simple and gives your profile that extra touch of authenticity.6. Enjoy ad-free monetization and federationBluesky is committed to keeping its platform ad-free, instead exploring other monetization methods that maintain user privacy. A subscription model will offer features like higher-quality video uploads and profile customization, but unlike X's approach, it won't influence post visibility or grant a "verified" badge. Bluesky also offers custom domains for handles, allowing users to personalize and authenticate their profiles. For creators, Bluesky will enable monetization through developer-created content, such as custom feeds, with Bluesky taking a small cut.Also: I tried replacing Twitter with Bluesky, Threads, and Mastodon: What I foundBluesky has also entered its federation phase, allowing users to set up their own Personal Data Servers (PDS). By hosting your own server, you gain even more control and can contribute directly to the decentralized Bluesky network. Setting up a PDS is straightforward: most organizations can choose a VPS provider to turn-key a PDS configuration.If you want to attempt it on your own, you can download the necessary Bluesky PDS files and launch your server. Docker can simplify the process, making it easier to manage and secure. For those interested, detailed setup steps and support are available through Bluesky'sGitHub page and the PDS Administrators Discord.With these monetization and federation options, Bluesky offers a unique, user-centric platform that combines control, privacy, and customization.7. There are great Bluesky appsIf you're on mobile, you'll find Bluesky's official app on iPhone and Android, though there's no iPad version yet. I've found a few good third-party clients (such as Openvibe as mentioned earlier and Skeets) for those looking to use Bluesky on iPad, which are helpful until the platform expands.And if you're a TweetDeck fan, you'll like Deck.blue, a third-party web app that recreates TweetDeck's multi-column layout, making it easy to keep up with multiple conversations. With these options, you can tailor the Bluesky experience to suit your needs.Should you join Bluesky?Bluesky might be worth your time if you're ready to leave algorithm-driven feeds behind and try a network that prioritizes user control. It's not a direct replacement for Twitter (X), but Bluesky has a lot to offer those who want a fresh start in a decentralized, privacy-minded network.Featured