How Elon Musk’s Ownership of Twitter Sparked a Social Media Renaissance

Since Elon Musk acquired Twitter (now known as X) in late 2022, there have been claims that the platform is dying. However, Twitter has proved to be resilient despite its struggles. As the incumbent in its category and owned by the world’s richest man, Twitter’s relevance is unlikely to fade as long as Musk remains involved.

But the real innovation is happening outside of Twitter. After more than a decade, the social networking format of microblogging has come alive once again, thanks to emerging platforms Threads and Bluesky.

Threads, launched by Mark Zuckerberg in July, has become the fastest-adopted software in history. It has found an audience among marketers, liberals, and those who value a premium user experience. Despite a recent slowdown in growth and usage, Threads still boasts more than 10 million daily active users and has attracted big global brands.

Bluesky, on the other hand, appeals to left-wing activists and humorists. It has become the choice for politically-minded Twitter refugees who prefer not to join Zuckerberg’s platform. Although Bluesky is not yet open to the public, it has gained a dedicated following, especially among “weird Twitter” accounts.

All three platforms have their strengths and weaknesses. Twitter still has the largest audience and is popular during live events. Threads offers a premium user experience and has gained traction among top global brands. Bluesky appeals to politically-minded users and those seeking a unique character.

This emerging social media renaissance, with a focus on microblogging, provides new energy and opportunities for users who prefer written content on social media. While TikTok and Instagram may be more popular, these new platforms offer a refreshing alternative.

Sources: The Hill