Bluesky tests dislikes and 'social proximity' to enhance chats

Bluesky Experiments with Dislikes and ‘Social Proximity’ to Improve Conversations

Bluesky is testing a dislike button aimed at enhancing how users interact with posts within their Discover feed. This initiative is part of several new ideas from the platform to foster better conversations. As social media continues evolving, key features like the dislike button can significantly impact user experience.

The concept of “social proximity” underpins these developments. Bluesky seeks to create a community where users can engage more meaningfully with people they already interact with or would likely enjoy getting to know. By focusing on posts from this select “neighborhood,” conversations can feel more relevant and familiar, reducing misunderstandings. Early tests of the dislike feature are designed to refine the content shown to users, indicating which posts they’d prefer less exposure to and potentially adjusting reply rankings within user threads.

In addition to limiting replies to followers, Bluesky is considering modifications to how the Reply button functions. By allowing users to review entire threads before posting, it aims to enhance the discourse quality. With a model for detecting inappropriate replies in development, there’s optimism that Bluesky can cultivate a healthier social environment.

While these changes seem beneficial, there’s a question of whether the “social neighborhood” concept may reinforce echo chambers rather than address broader moderation challenges. Users have recently criticized the platform for its inconsistency in enforcing community guidelines, raising concerns about whether critics might remain unseen in a tightly-knit social space, potentially avoiding necessary discussions.

As Bluesky navigates these challenges, users are invited to share their thoughts and experiences. What are your views on the dislike button and the concept of social proximity? Engage in the conversation and let us know!