Bluesky now lets you upload 10-minute long videos
Bluesky has increased its video upload limit to 10 minutes, up from the previous three-minute maximum. This update also allows for a maximum file size of 300MB and promises 2x-3x faster upload speeds. The change aims to make Bluesky more competitive with other social platforms like TikTok, which also supports 10-minute videos, and Threads, which allows five-minute videos. This move comes as Bluesky seeks to counter a reported 25% year-over-year drop in its active user base as of July.
Bluesky's decision to extend video uploads to 10 minutes, alongside faster speeds and a 300MB file limit, directly targets user engagement. This aligns its video capabilities with TikTok and surpasses Threads' five-minute limit, reflecting a broader industry push toward longer video content. For Asian markets, where TikTok's short-form video dominance is strong, Bluesky's adjustment offers an alternative for creators seeking a text-first platform with enhanced video options. The strategic intent is clear: reverse a 25% year-over-year decline in active users. While X (formerly Twitter) offers even longer video options for paying users, Bluesky's move focuses on its core free user base. The thing to watch is whether this feature alone can significantly shift user numbers in a crowded social media landscape, particularly against established players with deep roots in Asia. This update also benefits other AT Protocol-based apps like Bluescreen and Reelo, extending their video capabilities. However, the challenge remains in attracting and retaining users who are already deeply embedded in other ecosystems. The actual impact on Bluesky's user base in Asia will depend on how effectively it can differentiate its offering beyond just video length.
