The decentralized open social network Bluesky has incorporated new technology from Germ Network to introduce end-to-end encrypted (E2E) messaging within the Bluesky app, making Germ DM the first private messenger natively available in the app. Germ is also providing new guidance for other apps using the AT Protocol to implement similar features.
This integration highlights the distinct nature of open social networking ecosystems, where new functionalities can be developed by the community. Bluesky announced the Germ integration, noting the experimental feature allows Germ users to add a messaging button on their profiles for E2E encrypted communications.
Germ’s standalone app, in public beta on iOS in North America and Europe, saw a significant increase in daily active users following the integration announcement. Founded by Tessa Brown and Mark Xue, Germ aims to offer an alternative to existing encrypted platforms using newer technologies.
Germ uses Messaging Layer Security (MLS) and the AT Protocol, which powers Bluesky and other social apps, avoiding the need for a user’s phone number. The encrypted chats cannot be decrypted by any third-party service, including Germ or Bluesky.
Using the new messenger involves clicking a badge on a Bluesky profile, which launches a temporary iOS App Clip. Users can then authenticate with their ATProto handle to send messages. Downloading the full Germ DM app is optional.
For Germ badge setup, users need to download the Germ DM app and authenticate with Bluesky credentials. The integration replaces previous link-in-bio options with a more noticeable badge.
In discussions with the ATProto developer community since the Seattle ATmosphere Conference, Germ received user feedback to improve app integration, leading to the implementation of better AppView support for the Germ link.
Germ’s CEO noted the collaboration with Bluesky focused on user experience and encrypted messaging. Although AT Protocol may implement E2E encryption in the future, Bluesky explained the current complexities. Germ aligns with ATProto’s ethos of app choice and aims to resolve encryption challenges transparently.
Bluesky’s addition of the Germ badge was soon followed by another AT Protocol-based client, Blacksky. While focusing on everyday messaging features, Germ plans to explore monetization options, potentially targeting prosumer power users with paid features like support for multiple handles and AI-powered message screening.