Bluesky is reportedly preparing to unveil a new verification system featuring blue checkmarks, according to recent code alterations discovered in the app’s public GitHub repository. While reminiscent in appearance of the iconic checkmarks originally popularized by Twitter, now known as X, Bluesky’s verification approach appears significantly different in its operation.
Based on details gleaned from a recent code update, Bluesky’s method involves multiple entities rather than relying solely upon internal staff for user verification. These “trusted verifier” organizations would be empowered to independently assign verification checkmarks to users. Verified accounts will display a blue circle with a white checkmark, while the trusted verifier organizations themselves will have a distinctive scalloped-shaped blue icon containing a checkmark.
Documentation within the GitHub pull request indicated an official announcement might be forthcoming as early as Monday, April 21, 2025. While the platform currently allows users to self-verify by linking their accounts to official websites, Bluesky’s CEO Jay Graber previously hinted at potential plans for alternative verification models. Last year, Graber suggested the company would experiment with decentralized solutions, distributing verification powers across various organizations rather than maintaining sole control itself.
An image included in the code changes indicated prominent media outlets, including The New York Times and other respected news sources, may soon participate in this decentralized verification process. Users will reportedly have the ability to click on the checkmark icon to see exactly which organization granted the account its verified status.
Bluesky’s implementation potentially positions itself as distinctly different from the verification system introduced under Elon Musk at X, which initially restricted verified checkmarks to paying subscribers. While Musk has since partially reversed this policy, granting checks to certain influential accounts for free, critics have argued the move diluted the value associated with verification, even allowing some bot accounts onto the verified tier.
By decentralizing verification authority and spreading it across trusted third-party organizations, Bluesky hopes to mitigate some of these concerns. Still, as the rumored announcement draws near, questions remain regarding exactly how this decentralized approach will function in practice, and whether it can effectively maintain the integrity and value of the verified status.
