Skylight Social gains traction with decentralized video sharing

Skylight Social, a short-form video application developed on the decentralized infrastructure of Bluesky, is drawing attention as a potential alternative to traditional social media platforms. Unlike centralized networks, the app is built on the AT Protocol, allowing for greater user autonomy and the freedom to move content and audiences across compatible services. Users can log in using their existing Bluesky accounts, with their entire follower base transferring seamlessly to the app.

A response to bans and shifting social media landscapes

The emergence of Skylight Social follows growing concerns about the potential banning of major platforms like TikTok in certain countries. A post from the official Bluesky account encouraged users to “try out @skylight.social — a video app built upon the same open network as Bluesky” instead of checking “if TikTok was banned or not.” This messaging underlines the platform's intent to offer a resilient and portable alternative for content creators who are increasingly wary of restrictions imposed by state or corporate actors.

One of the app’s notable features is the ability to upload videos up to three minutes long—an upgrade from the initial one-minute limit, introduced after feedback from early users. This makes the platform more versatile, enabling more varied content formats. As the app is directly integrated into the Bluesky network, creators benefit from maintaining their community without needing to rebuild from scratch.

Backing, development, and expanding user base

Support from high-profile investors like Mark Cuban has contributed to the platform's rapid user growth. According to recent posts from the Skylight team, the application has surpassed 150,000 users. Developer accounts such as @reedharmeyer.bsky.social and @buildwithtori.com continue to share development updates and interact with the growing community. The collaborative feedback loop between the team and its users has been a defining element of Skylight’s evolution so far.

A decentralized approach to content distribution

Because it operates on the AT Protocol, Skylight Social functions independently of traditional server-based control systems. This allows users to retain control of their data and content, a feature that aligns with broader conversations around digital ownership and decentralization. It also opens the door to cross-platform interoperability, making it more than just a standalone app—it’s a tool within a broader decentralized social network.

Mobile access through major app stores

To broaden access, Skylight Social is now available for download on both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. This move enables users on Android and iOS devices to create and share video content directly from their phones, reinforcing the platform’s aim of making decentralized media easily accessible to a wider audience. The development team continues to explore feature updates and usability improvements based on ongoing community input.