Maybe Bluesky has “won”

The author argues that Bluesky is not yet federated or decentralized, despite being credited as such, though the team is working toward decentralization. Bluesky runs on the AT Protocol, whose Personal Data Servers can be self-hosted for about $15 a month, but the Relays needed to index them require around 4.5 TB of disk space, and the only App View reading PDSs is the one Bluesky controls. DIDs using the PLC method, and DMs, also remain under Bluesky's control. The author also cites domain-based usernames, composable moderation and starter packs as strengths, and says Bluesky may "win" while staying open to change.