Bluesky, the decentralized social network, has announced a significant update to its platform, increasing the video upload limit from 60 seconds to 3 minutes. This move brings the platform more in line with its competitors, X (formerly Twitter) and Meta's Threads, and is expected to enhance the user experience.

The expanded video limit is a welcome development for users and developers alike. It will allow creators to produce more in-depth content, and will also benefit third-party apps such as Bluescreen and Skylight, which are working to bring a TikTok-like experience to Bluesky. These apps are built on the same AT Protocol as Bluesky and will now be able to offer a more comprehensive video experience, rivaling TikTok's 10-minute video limit.

In addition to the video limit increase, Bluesky has introduced several other features to improve the user experience. A new "Chat requests" screen allows users to manage messages from unknown users more easily, giving them the option to accept or reject conversations. This update is expected to reduce spam and improve overall user safety.

Bluesky has also made it easier for users to mute accounts, with a new "Mute account" option available in the three-dot menu on each post. This feature will help users customize their feed and reduce noise. Furthermore, the platform has introduced better tablet-size layouts on the web, making it more accessible to users on larger devices.

Another significant update is the improved moderation reporting flow. This change is expected to help Bluesky's moderation team more effectively address user reports and maintain a safer, more respectful community.

The updates come as Bluesky continues to evolve and compete in the social media landscape. With its decentralized approach and focus on user experience, the platform is positioning itself as a viable alternative to traditional social media giants. As the platform continues to grow and develop, it will be interesting to see how these updates impact user engagement and adoption.

Overall, the expanded video limit and new features demonstrate Bluesky's commitment to enhancing the user experience and providing a more comprehensive social media platform. As the platform continues to evolve, it will be important to watch how these updates impact the user base and the broader social media landscape.