Bluesky announced in April 2026 that its social network now supports higher-quality photo uploads, doubling both file size limits and resolution capabilities in version 1.121 of its app.
The platform increased its maximum photo upload size from 1MB to 2MB, while photos now render at up to 4000 pixels instead of the previous 2000-pixel limit. The company unveiled these changes late Wednesday, April 23, 2026.
Beyond size and resolution improvements, Bluesky replaced its traditional image grid with a swipeable carousel that accommodates mixed aspect ratios without cropping photos. However, some early user feedback suggests a preference for choosing between grid and carousel posting options.
The upgrades position Bluesky to compete more effectively with rival social networks like X and Meta’s Threads. Threads gained recognition after its launch as a photo-friendly platform through its support for various aspect ratios and its carousel feature, which offers creative ways to display larger images. The platform’s photo capabilities even inspired a developer to build a dedicated app helping users post panoramic photos to Threads.
While Bluesky has narrowed the gap, Threads still maintains an advantage with a larger maximum image size, though the company doesn’t publish this specification in its official documentation.
The changes matter for users seeking a social platform that prioritizes high-quality visual content. By enhancing photo capabilities, Bluesky signals its intent to attract photography enthusiasts and content creators who value image quality and flexible display options in their social media posts.
Source: TechCrunch