X Copies Bluesky with New “Starterpacks” Feature
Struggling to find who to follow on X? You’re not alone. In a move that mirrors Bluesky’s successful “Starter Packs,” X is rolling out its own version called “Starterpacks”—curated lists of recommended accounts across categories like Tech, News, Gaming, and more. Announced by X’s head of product Nikita Bier on January 21, 2026, the feature aims to solve a long-standing onboarding problem: how new (or returning) users can quickly build a relevant, engaging feed without sifting through millions of profiles. But unlike Bluesky’s community-driven approach, X’s lists are handpicked internally—raising questions about transparency, control, and what this means for user discovery in 2026.
Why X Is Borrowing From Bluesky—Again
Bluesky’s “Starter Packs” have quietly become one of the most effective onboarding tools in social media. Launched as part of Bluesky’s decentralized, user-first ethos, these packs let anyone create and share themed lists—say, “Climate Scientists to Follow” or “Indie Game Developers”—making it easy for newcomers to instantly tap into niche communities. The feature resonated especially well with users tired of algorithmic feeds and opaque recommendation engines.
Now, X is adopting a strikingly similar concept. But instead of empowering users to build their own packs, X’s team has spent months “scouring the world for the top posters in every niche and country,” according to Bier. The result? Officially sanctioned lists that reflect X’s internal data and editorial judgment—not grassroots curation.
This isn’t the first time X has taken inspiration from emerging platforms. From threaded replies to longer posts, the Musk-led company has shown a pattern of fast-following innovations that gain traction elsewhere. But in an era where trust in platform governance is fragile, the decision to keep curation centralized could backfire.
How X’s “Starterpacks” Actually Work
X’s Starterpacks will appear as pre-built categories within the app, likely during onboarding or in a dedicated discovery section. Users can browse packs labeled “Technology,” “Memes,” “Health & Fitness,” “Business & Finance,” and others, then follow all suggested accounts in one tap—or pick and choose individually.
The appeal is obvious: instead of staring at a blank feed, you get instant access to voices X deems authoritative or entertaining in your areas of interest. For casual users or those rejoining after years away, this lowers the barrier to meaningful engagement.
But there’s a catch. Because these lists are created internally—without public criteria or user input—they operate like a black box. Who decides who’s “top” in “Politics” or “Gaming”? What metrics determine inclusion? And how often will these lists be updated?
On Bluesky, anyone can see who made a Starter Pack, why they included certain accounts, and even fork or remix the list. That transparency builds trust. On X, the process is opaque—a stark contrast in philosophy.
A Familiar Strategy, Updated for 2026
Suggested follows aren’t new to X. Back when the platform was still called Twitter, it famously guided new users through a “Who to Follow” wizard based on interests and contacts. Over time, that evolved into algorithmically driven recommendations, often criticized for promoting controversy over credibility.
Now, with Starterpacks, X is returning to a more structured, category-based approach—but with a 2026 twist. By leaning into topical authority and global diversity (“every niche and country,” per Bier), the company hopes to position itself as a hub for real-time expertise, not just viral noise.
Yet the execution hinges on perception. In today’s climate, users are increasingly skeptical of platforms that curate content without clear guidelines. If X’s Starterpacks feel biased, outdated, or dominated by megaphone accounts rather than genuine experts, adoption could stall.
What This Means for Users—and Creators
For everyday users, Starterpacks could be a welcome shortcut. If you’re diving into crypto discussions or exploring sustainable fashion, having a vetted entry point saves time and reduces friction. It might even revive interest in X among those who left due to feed fatigue or toxicity.
But for creators, the stakes are higher. Inclusion in a Starterpack could mean a sudden influx of followers—especially if the pack surfaces during onboarding. That visibility is valuable, but it also concentrates influence in X’s hands. Unlike Bluesky, where community endorsement drives discovery, X’s model risks reinforcing existing hierarchies or favoring accounts aligned with the platform’s current priorities.
Creators outside the mainstream may find it harder to break through. Without the ability to submit or co-create packs, smaller voices rely entirely on X’s internal radar—which has historically favored volume over nuance.
Platform Wars Heat Up
X’s move underscores a broader shift in social media: the battle for attention is now a battle for onboarding. With user growth plateauing across major platforms, the real competition lies in retention—and that starts the moment someone signs up.
Bluesky’s open, user-led model appeals to digital natives craving agency. X’s top-down approach reflects its ambition to be a global town square with gatekeepers. Both strategies have trade-offs, but in 2026, users increasingly demand both ease and autonomy.
By copying Starter Packs while stripping away their collaborative core, X risks offering a hollow imitation. Convenience matters—but so does trust. If users sense that Starterpacks serve X’s agenda more than their curiosity, they may keep scrolling past.
What Comes Next
X says Starterpacks will roll out to all users in the “coming weeks.” Early adopters should watch for subtle changes in their feed composition and follower suggestions. Will these packs reflect diverse viewpoints, or echo chambers dressed as expertise? Will they include rising voices, or just the usual suspects?
One thing is certain: as social platforms double down on discovery, the tools we use to find people matter as much as the content they post. In that sense, Starterpacks aren’t just a feature—they’re a statement about who gets to shape the conversation.
And in 2026, that statement carries weight far beyond a single app update.
