Bluesky, the decentralized social network, is expanding beyond its core app with Attie, a new AI tool designed to empower users to build hyper-personalized feeds and, eventually, even their own social applications. The move marks a significant step towards a more user-controlled social media landscape, leveraging the open AT Protocol (atproto) to put algorithmic power directly in the hands of its community.
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A New Era of Algorithmic Control
Attie, presented at the Atmosphere conference, allows users to create custom feeds using natural language commands. Instead of being locked into platform-defined algorithms, individuals can instruct the AI to curate content based on their exact preferences, effectively bypassing traditional filter bubbles. The app utilizes Anthropic’s Claude AI under the hood, but operates as a standalone product, separate from the main Bluesky interface.
“You control it, you shape it, without having to write code or know how to set up these feeds,” explains Bluesky interim CEO Toni Schneider. This accessibility is crucial; the goal is to lower the barrier to entry for building on the Atmosphere protocol, opening up possibilities for developers and everyday users alike.
The Power of Open Data
Attie’s effectiveness stems from Bluesky’s open ecosystem. Because the protocol shares data across apps, the AI can immediately understand user interests and behavior, creating a more intuitive and personalized experience. The tool is initially launching in private beta for Atmosphere login holders, but will eventually be integrated into Bluesky and other atproto apps.
The long-term vision extends beyond feed curation. Bluesky intends to allow users to “vibe-code” their own social apps, fostering a decentralized development environment where innovation isn’t stifled by centralized platform control.
From CEO to Builder: Jay Graber’s Return to Product Development
The project is led by Jay Graber, Bluesky’s former CEO and now chief innovation officer. Graber’s shift from executive leadership to product development underscores the company’s commitment to building, not just managing. She believes that current AI practices on major platforms prioritize engagement over user benefit, actively manipulating algorithms to maximize time spent in-app.
“We think AI should serve people, not platforms,” Graber stated. “An open protocol puts this power directly in users’ hands.”
Funding and Future Monetization
Bluesky recently secured an additional $100 million in funding, providing the team with over three years of runway. This stability will enable them to tackle critical challenges, including implementing privacy controls and exploring monetization strategies. While some feared crypto integration given the backing of crypto investors, Schneider assures that this isn’t on the table.
Instead, Bluesky is considering subscription models, hosting services, or other revenue streams to sustain the platform. Schneider draws parallels to WordPress, envisioning a thriving decentralized ecosystem with billions of dollars flowing through it.
Attie represents a bold step towards a more democratic social web, where users have agency over their online experiences and the tools to shape their digital worlds. The project’s success hinges on its ability to deliver on that promise, fostering a community-driven ecosystem that prioritizes user control over platform dominance.
