Bluesky to Introduce Verifiable Blue Checks—And You Can’t Pay for Them
Bluesky is gearing up to reintroduce authentic blue checkmarks, signaling a move back toward credibility and genuine verification. Unlike other platforms where badges are up for sale, Bluesky aims to return to a system where verification is earned—not bought.
What’s Changing with Bluesky Verification?
A recent discovery from @alice.mosphere.at, a well-known reverse engineer, revealed the blue check feature buried in Bluesky’s public GitHub repository.
- The feature resembles Twitter’s original verification model, focusing on authenticity over subscription.
- However, Bluesky adds a unique twist by introducing “Trusted Verifiers”—a role that empowers selected accounts to verify others.
These Trusted Verifiers will act as middlemen for credibility.
- For instance, mainstream publications like The New York Times could verify their own reporters and contributors.
- This process promotes decentralized trust, where legitimacy is distributed from reputable sources.
What Does the New Blue Check System Look Like?
Leaked previews shared by Alice showcase how the system might appear in-app:
- Each verified account will display a blue check, and tapping it reveals who granted the verification.
- This level of transparency ensures users know exactly why someone is verified.
Additionally, Bluesky will include a toggle option for users who want to hide blue checkmarks entirely.
- This feature aligns with Bluesky’s open and user-centric approach, allowing control over the verification visibility.
- Early signs point to a possible rollout as early as April 21, though there’s no official word from Bluesky yet.
How It Differs from X’s Paid System
Bluesky’s direction stands in contrast to X (formerly Twitter), where verification has shifted to a pay-to-access model.
- On X, anyone subscribing to the platform’s premium tier gets a blue check, often resulting in bot accounts appearing legitimate.
- This has significantly blurred the line between authentic identity and purchased status.
Bluesky’s model, on the other hand, places verification power in the hands of vetted institutions and community-trusted users, maintaining a more credible environment.
A Return to Authenticity?
The decision to restore meaningful verification marks a return to basics for online identity.
- Bluesky’s approach acknowledges the importance of platform trust, especially in an era plagued by misinformation.
- Alongside other new features like a Trending tab and Explore page, it’s clear the app is positioning itself as a serious Twitter alternative.
Will This Make You Switch?
With a fairer verification system, Bluesky might finally become the go-to platform for users seeking authenticity over algorithms.
- The promise of non-monetized blue checks could reintroduce trust into social interactions online.
- However, its success will depend on how effectively the verifier system is implemented and moderated.
Are you considering making the jump to Bluesky full-time? Does the idea of trust-based verification appeal to you—or do you prefer platforms with more user-controlled visibility? Let us know your take in the comments below.
