Bounce launches a service for moving accounts between Bluesky and Mastodon

Bounce has officially launched, providing a much-needed solution for users of open social networks. This innovative migration tool enables individuals on platforms like Bluesky and Mastodon to seamlessly transfer their follow graphs between accounts, despite both networks utilizing different protocols. Currently, Mastodon users dissatisfied with their experience have the option to switch to a different Mastodon server. Meanwhile, Bluesky is working on a feature that would allow users to migrate their accounts to a new personal data server (PDS). However, with Mastodon operating on the ActivityPub Protocol and Bluesky on the AT Protocol, transferring accounts across these platforms has been a challenge—until now. Bounce leverages technology initially created for Bridgy Fed, which connects Mastodon and Bluesky, making user profiles accessible across both services. The process begins by transferring a user’s Bluesky account to a bridged account that facilitates interaction between the two networks, ultimately allowing the migration to their Mastodon account. Notably, this tool also supports Pixelfed, an Instagram-like application that shares the ActivityPub framework with Mastodon. At its launch, Bounce enables migrations from Bluesky to Mastodon or Pixelfed, but not vice versa. This limitation stems from Bluesky's current system, which only permits users to leave but not return. Developers have indicated that once Bluesky’s infrastructure allows for reverse migrations, Bounce will introduce that functionality as well. Users considering this migration should note that once they transfer their account from Bluesky, they will no longer be able to log in using their Bluesky credentials on the app or any other AT Protocol-based services. The launch of Bounce is particularly relevant for Bluesky users in Mississippi, where the platform recently announced a block on its service due to a new age assurance law. This decision underscores the urgency for tools like Bounce that empower users to relocate their accounts. The beta version of Bounce is available to the public starting Monday, targeting early adopters and advocates of the open web who are willing to explore the service and provide feedback. Users are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the migration procedure, as once they leave Bluesky, returning is not currently an option.