Bluesky, initially conceived as an internal team within Twitter, was tasked with developing an open-source infrastructure that could potentially shift the entire platform. However, by 2022, Bluesky had evolved into an independent entity with a broader vision for decentralized social networking.
Dorsey's departure from Bluesky was confirmed on Sunday, leaving behind a project that he had once championed. Despite his initial involvement and support, Dorsey's recent actions suggest a shift in his focus and priorities.
In a statement addressing his departure, Bluesky expressed gratitude to Dorsey for his contributions, stating, "We sincerely thank Jack for his help funding and initiating the Bluesky project." The social network also highlighted its current status, noting that it is thriving as an open-source platform running on atproto, the decentralized protocol developed by the Bluesky team.
Dorsey's decision to step down from the Bluesky board comes amid a series of notable actions within the social media landscape. In September, Dorsey notably deleted his own Bluesky account, signaling a significant shift in his involvement with the project.
Moreover, Dorsey's recent philanthropic endeavors have also garnered attention. On Saturday, he announced a substantial donation of $5 million to Nostr, a crypto-adjacent social network. This donation, part of a larger contribution from his #startsmall charity, underscores Dorsey's ongoing interest in innovative social media platforms.
On X, the social network formerly known as Twitter and now owned by Elon Musk, Dorsey's presence has also evolved. His bio on X now exclusively contains his public key for Nostr, emphasizing his support for decentralized technologies. Additionally, Dorsey's recent activity on X, including unfollowing all but three accounts, suggests a deliberate shift in his social media engagement.
In a tweet shared with his followers, Dorsey encouraged users to take control of their digital rights, stating, "Don’t depend on corporations to grant you rights. Defend them yourself using freedom technology." This statement reflects Dorsey's longstanding advocacy for decentralized platforms and user empowerment.
Despite his departure from Bluesky and his endorsement of alternative social networks, Dorsey has maintained a level of admiration for Elon Musk. In 2022, Dorsey referred to Musk as the "singular solution I trust" for the future of Twitter. However, Dorsey has also expressed criticism of Musk's actions since assuming control of the platform, describing some as "fairly reckless."
Since stepping down from Twitter, Dorsey's attention has been primarily focused on his other venture, Block. Block encompasses both Square, a conventional fintech company, and a bitcoin-focused division. Dorsey's continued involvement in the world of digital payments and cryptocurrency reflects his ongoing commitment to innovation and disruption in the tech industry.
In summary, Jack Dorsey's departure from the Bluesky board marks a significant development in the realm of decentralized social networking. His actions, including his support for alternative platforms and philanthropic efforts, underscore his commitment to advancing innovative technologies. As Dorsey continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of social media and technology, his influence and impact are sure to remain a topic of interest and speculation.