Mastodon, the open source network that rivals X, is rolling out quote posts next week with user-controlled safeguards to curb misuse and foster healthier online conversations.
Mastodon, the open source and decentralised alternative to X, will introduce quote posts next week with built-in safeguards to prevent misuse. The move highlights how open governance can shape features to prioritise healthier discourse, in contrast to centralised platforms where engagement often overrides user well-being.
On X, quote posts have frequently been linked to ‘dunking,’ where users mock others through sarcasm or derision. Mastodon’s version seeks to avoid this by giving users granular control over their content. Permissions can be set to allow quotes from Anyone, Followers only, or Just me. Visibility can also be managed through Public, Followers only, or Quiet public, which makes a post public but excludes it from search, trends, and the public timeline.
Users can override default settings on a post-by-post basis within the ‘visibility and interaction settings.’ If a post is quoted, the original author is notified and can remove their content from the quote. They also retain the ability to block individuals to prevent future quoting. According to Mastodon, these protections are designed to ‘expand discussions, make new connections, and amplify underrepresented voices.’
The feature will first roll out on larger servers such as mastodon.online and mastodon.social, and will be part of the Mastodon 4.5 software update. However, as Mastodon is part of the open social web, or fediverse, quote posts may not appear everywhere immediately. Other platforms will need to adopt the new technical specification for full compatibility.
The quote option will sit alongside Mastodon’s Boost feature, similar to reposts on X. By pairing innovation with user empowerment, Mastodon demonstrates how open source platforms can deliver new functionality without compromising community safety.
