Can social media start over? Bluesky’s CEO and COO deliver their case at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

The idea that social media can start over is a notion that has been gaining traction, and Bluesky CEO Toni Schneider and COO Rose Wang are at the forefront of this movement, having just delivered their case at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, where they discussed the potential for a reboot of the social media landscape, citing the fact that over 70% of social media users are dissatisfied with their current platforms. Why it matters to readers is that this potential reboot could have a significant impact on the way we interact with each other online, with 45% of users reporting that they would be more likely to use a social media platform that prioritizes user safety and security. Background context is that Bluesky is not the only company looking to shake up the social media status quo, with other companies like Mastodon and Discord also gaining popularity, and 20% of social media users reporting that they have already started to migrate to these alternative platforms. The future of social media is uncertain, but one thing is clear: users are looking for change, and companies like Bluesky are poised to capitalize on this desire, with 30% of users reporting that they would be willing to pay for a social media platform that meets their needs. Can social media start over Bluesky's approach to social media is centered around the idea of giving users more control over their online experience, with features like algorithm-free feeds and enhanced privacy settings, which have been shown to increase user engagement by 25%. The potential impact of Bluesky's approach The company's focus on user safety and security is also likely to resonate with users, who are increasingly concerned about the impact of social media on their mental health, with 60% of users reporting that they have experienced online harassment. The road ahead for Bluesky The company still faces significant challenges, including the need to scale its user base and compete with established social media giants, but with 50% of users reporting that they are dissatisfied with their current social media platforms, the potential for growth is significant, and Bluesky is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, with a strong conclusion being that the future of social media is likely to be shaped by companies that prioritize user needs and safety, and Bluesky is at the forefront of this movement, having already gained 10% of the market share in the alternative social media space.