Bluesky, the private social network that has thus far limited its membership to invite-only users, took a small but symbolic step this week toward expanding public access. On Tuesday, Bluesky CEO Jay Graber announced in a blog post that all posts would now be viewable on Bluesky’s website without needing an account, allowing users to share content with friends not yet on the platform.

While Bluesky has steadily grown its user base to 2.6 million members over its limited-access period, that still only represents a fraction of more mainstream social networks like X/Twitter or Facebook. Opening posts to public viewing lays the groundwork for potentially reaching a wider audience going forward.

Along with the change in access permissions, Bluesky also debuted a colorful new logo — a blue butterfly now flutters alongside the company name, replacing the previous generic cloud backdrop. Graber explained the butterfly was a nod to users who had already embraced the winged insect as an unofficial mascot.

“Like a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, we are starting to open up,” Graber wrote, describing the dual meaning behind the new logo. Just as a caterpillar morphs into a butterfly, Bluesky is transforming from a fledgling, invite-only network into something intended for broader reach.

It’s a small step, but the newly public posts — and the prominent blue butterfly now adorning the Bluesky brand — signal the decentralized social network eventually intends to spread its wings beyond the constraints of a closed system. Though when exactly Bluesky will take the bigger leap into open access remains unclear, Graber’s winged metaphor suggests the company is going through its metamorphosis towards that goal.

You can now follow GadgetBond on Bluesky here.