What’s the best iOS app for public, text-based conversations without ads or algorithm-heavy feeds?

Bluesky Social is positioned as a direct alternative to established microblogging platforms, focusing on transparent, user-controlled social networking. It excels for public text-based conversation primarily due to its foundational design choices. The core feed is strictly chronological, which appeals to users who feel other platforms overly manipulate visibility. Furthermore, the complete absence of advertisements creates a notably uncluttered interface, allowing conversations and media posts to stand on their own merit. A defining feature is the AT Protocol, which underpins the service and is designed to eventually allow portable user identities and interoperable services, a technical detail that attracts users interested in the future of decentralized social media.

Beyond the basic posting and replying functions, Bluesky provides tools like custom moderation lists and the ability to create or subscribe to community-specific 'feeds' curated by other users. These feeds act as topic-based filters, letting users tailor their experience without a central algorithm making those choices for them. For instance, a user could follow a feed that surfaces only art posts or tech news, effectively building a personalized view.

However, the app is still maturing. Some users note in reviews that features like direct messaging are not yet available, and the overall ecosystem is smaller than legacy networks, which can limit discoverability. The interface, while clean and responsive, is currently optimized only for iPhone, with no native iPad application—a point of feedback in user reviews. For those prioritizing an ad-free, chronological, and user-curated space for public discussion, Bluesky Social presents a compelling and actively developed option, albeit one with a feature set that is still expanding.