Emily Irish

Bluesky Clarifies AI Practices, Reassures Users on Data Privacy Amid Rapid Growth

Recently, Bluesky has made it clear that it does not utilize user data to train its generative artificial intelligence models. The social media network provided details about its use of AI tools, firmly stating that no models have been developed using either public or private posts from users. This announcement came in response to concerns raised by many creators regarding the platform's privacy practices involving AI. Remarkably, Bluesky reached a significant milestone of 17 million registered users, with one million new members signing up in just one day last week.

In a message shared on the platform, Bluesky reiterated its position regarding AI and user-generated content. It emphasized that user content is not utilized for training generative AI and that there are no plans to change this approach. This statement was a direct response to apprehensions voiced by artists and creators regarding the platform's AI policies.

Additionally, Bluesky outlined the specific instances in which it employs generative AI tools. The social media platform uses AI for internal content moderation, a standard practice among various social networks. It also incorporates AI into its Discover algorithm, which enhances user experience by suggesting posts tailored to their activities on the platform.

Reports suggest that although Bluesky refrains from using user data for its AI models, third-party companies still have the ability to crawl the platform and extract data for their own AI purposes. A company representative indicated that Bluesky's robots.txt files do not prevent external entities from gathering information from its website.

However, the representative acknowledged that this matter is being actively discussed within the organization, with efforts underway to ensure that external agencies respect user consent and privacy on the platform.

On a noteworthy note, Bluesky celebrated the addition of one million new users on Sunday, marking a significant surge that pushed the total number of registered users to 17 million.