A recent analysis by app store intelligence provider data.ai reveals that Bluesky, a social media platform funded by Twitter, has surpassed one million downloads, despite being in invite-only beta. At the same time, Threads, an Instagram app enabling longer-form posts and conversations with close friends, has experienced impressive user adoption with over 10 million downloads in just one week.
Bluesky: A Promising Alternative to Twitter
Bluesky, developed by a team of former Twitter employees, aims to establish itself as a more open and decentralized platform compared to its predecessor. With a focus on private messaging and group conversations, Bluesky offers features that facilitate stronger connections between users and their closest friends and followers.
Notably, the platform will eschew ads and algorithms, catering to users seeking a more authentic and user-centric experience. Although Bluesky is still in development, its anticipated full launch later this year holds promise for those seeking an alternative to the mainstream social media landscape.

Threads: Elevating the Instagram Experience
Threads, an app integrated with Instagram, has emerged as a compelling rival to Twitter’s dominance. By allowing seamless sharing of Threads posts to Instagram feeds and stories, the app strengthens the bond between users and their social circles. Threads’ success is evidenced by its impressive adoption rate, reaching 10 million downloads in a single week. With its availability on both iOS and Android, Threads has gained significant traction and topped download charts in 137 out of 144 markets.
A Promising Outlook for Bluesky and Threads
While both Bluesky and Threads demonstrate significant potential as challengers to Twitter’s market dominance, they still face the challenge of transforming early adoption into sustained user engagement. Twitter, with 72 million first-time downloads during the same period, remains a formidable force.
However, Bluesky’s achievement of one million lifetime installs in just four months, coupled with Threads’ rapid growth, underscores the demand for alternative social media experiences. Notably, Bluesky’s invite-only approach suggests a level of interest that may extend well beyond its current user base. As Bluesky prepares for a public launch later this year, the full extent of its appeal will become clearer.
Geographical Insights: U.S. Leading the Way
The United States has shown the highest level of interest in Bluesky thus far, accounting for approximately 40% of its installs. Following closely behind are Brazil, Japan, Thailand, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a global curiosity about new social media platforms. These figures highlight the potential for Bluesky and Threads to captivate users from diverse regions and cultures, providing a fresh perspective on social networking.
Bluesky’s one million downloads suggest a growing appetite for novel social media experiences that prioritize privacy and personal connections. While it remains to be seen whether Bluesky and Threads can challenge Twitter’s dominance, their early success indicates they could pose a significant threat.
Source: Data.ai Blog