Social Network Bluesky is doubling down on video. After adding a new Tiktok-like custom video feed last week in the wake of the US ban on the popular video app (now paused), the company on Monday announced that it is adding a new video tab to bluesky user profiles.
The tab will allow people to showcase videos they’ve uploaded to Bluesky, whether it’s original content or something they’ve taken from other social networks, including, of course, Tiktok. But beyond simply chasing the potential for more video-based social activity, videos could potentially offer Bluesky another revenue stream if it hits the ground running. The company could charge for features like longer or higher quality video as part of its next premium subscription plan if it wants.
However, not all bluesky users are ready to become just another Tiktok rival. Some people even ask in responses to the company’s announcement whether they will be able to disable the tab on their profiles. Others ask that Bluesky prioritizes other features they’re used to on X, like an edit button.
However, there is clear demand and interest for developers in building bluesky video at the moment.
Several developers are already working on “Bluesky Tiktok” apps, including Berlin developer Sebastian Vogelsang, who makes the basics of bluesky and now flash apps (sort of like “Bluesky Instagram”), and the teams behind the upcoming Reloo and Skylight apps, for example.
Celebrity investor and entrepreneur Mark Cuban also recently said he’s open to backing a video app built on the AT protocol, which powers Bluesky.
The new user profile video tab was introduced in the Bluesky 1.97 update, which also adds a menu to block a user or delete a conversation after reporting a DM (direct message), and other translation improvements.
