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TikTok came back on Monday after going dark in the US on Saturday.  Although Trump gave them a reprieve the app still faces uncertainty. Other platforms are stepping in to offer compelling TikTok alternatives.

Recent announcements from Threads, Bluesky, and X reveal exciting new features designed to attract creators and video enthusiasts alike.

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Bluesky Introduces “Trending Videos”

Bluesky, a decentralized social media platform announced its new “Trending Videos” feature. The feature, accessible through the explore tab, allows users to scroll through a timeline of video posts.

“We had to get in on the video action too — Bluesky now has custom feeds for video! Like any other feed, you can choose to pin these [to your home screen] or not. Bluesky is yours to customize,” the company stated. Users can swipe up to enter a timeline of exclusively video content, mimicking TikTok’s swipe-based interface.

To access the feature, Android users can tap “Search” and find the “Trending Videos (Beta)” section. Bluesky suggests restarting the app if the feature doesn’t appear initially. Many of the videos featured are imported from TikTok.  and although Bluesky hasn’t disclosed its recommendation algorithm, the platform’s customizable approach offers a fresh take.

Threads Announces “Edits” Video-Editing App

Instagram head Adam Mosseri announced a new video-editing app called Edits on Threads. Positioned as a competitor to TikTok’s CapCut, Edits is designed for creators who edit videos on their phones.

According to Mosseri, Edits will offer a “full suite of creative tools” including:

• Higher-quality recordings
• Shareable drafts
• Trending audio
• Insights on Reels’ performance
• An “inspiration tab”

“The first version is going to be incomplete, so please be patient, but I’m really excited to put this in all your hands,” Mosseri said. While the app’s iOS version is available for pre-order with a release date listed as March 13, an Android version is expected soon.

In response to comparisons with CapCut, Mosseri described Edits as “CapCut, but more for creators than casual video makers.” This targeted approach could make Edits a go-to tool for influencers and brands looking to refine their content.

X Enters the Vertical Video Space

Not to be left behind, X (formerly Twitter) has rolled out its own vertical video feature for U.S. users. 

The platform announced, “An immersive new home for videos is rolling out to users in the US today.” This addition aims to capitalize on TikTok’s temporary removal from app stores, offering an alternative platform for short-form video content.

Platforms like Bluesky, Threads, and X are stepping up with innovative features to fill the gap. From Bluesky’s Trending Videos to Instagram’s Edits and X’s immersive video feed, creators and viewers now have more choices than ever for engaging with short-form video content.