Bluesky adds blue check verification for notable users
Bluesky, the decentralized social platform and rising alternative to X (formerly Twitter), has introduced a new blue checkmark feature for verifying accounts. Unlike other platforms that charge users for a badge, Bluesky’s verification process is currently free. The new checkmark appears inside a blue circle and will only be given to users the platform chooses to verify.
How verification works on Bluesky
Bluesky says it will “proactively verify” accounts that it believes are notable or trustworthy. This means users can’t apply for the checkmark, at least not yet. Instead, the platform will decide which accounts receive the badge based on its internal process.
A unique addition is the role of “Trusted Verifiers.” These are independent organisations that can verify accounts within their networks. For example, a media company could verify its journalists, or a tech firm could verify its employees. This verification tag will include a clickable feature, showing which group granted the blue check.
Verification with decentralisation in mind
Bluesky’s core idea revolves around decentralisation. Before this feature, users could set their domain name as their handle, acting as a kind of self-verification. The new blue check adds another layer, aimed more at public trust.
Still, Bluesky says its moderation team will ensure that each verification is real and accountable. This hands-on approach may help avoid the misuse that has plagued other platforms’ verification systems.
Limited user control, for now
At the moment, users cannot request to be verified. However, Bluesky has confirmed it will open up applications once it tests and refines the system. There’s also a small user-friendly feature—anyone verified can choose to hide their checkmark from their profile by changing their settings.
That said, many users might find the lack of a direct application process limiting. It may lead to confusion or criticism if the criteria for verification aren’t made transparent. The system will need regular updates to ensure fairness and trust.
What could be better?
While the new system makes sense for public figures and organizations, everyday users might feel left out. Bluesky’s decision to control the process tightly may raise questions about transparency and openness—key values in decentralized spaces.
Moreover, without a clear roadmap or timeline for when public requests will be accepted, many active users may feel disconnected from the process.
Final thoughts
Bluesky’s blue check feature adds more trust to the platform and helps users know who they’re engaging with. The proactive model and trusted verifier system are thoughtful steps forward. But the platform still needs to refine how it handles transparency and user participation.
As Bluesky grows, features like this will likely evolve. For now, verified accounts will be chosen by the platform itself, and everyone else will have to wait.
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