- Unstoppable Domains introduces an instant messaging system for Web3 usernames, leveraging XMTP for secure and persistent messaging.
- Web3 usernames are now being expanded for communication, with support on various platforms including UD’s iOS app, Coinbase Wallet, and Lens protocol apps.
- UD’s future plans include integration with Push Protocol for project notifications and have fostered partnerships with Binance.US and Ethereum Name Service.
According to an announcement on August 23rd, Unstoppable Domains (UD) has expanded the horizons for owners of .crypto, .wallet, .polygon, and other UD-registered usernames. These users can now seamlessly send messages across various apps that integrate with XMTP. The list of compatible platforms includes the UD iOS app, the UD website, Coinbase Wallet, and Lens protocol apps such as Lenster and Buttrfly. Notably, the Android version of UD will not immediately support the messaging feature, but plans are underway to introduce it shortly.
Web3 usernames were introduced in 2017, designed to simplify the convoluted crypto addresses into more recognizable names. Think of a long and intricate crypto string like 0xd8dA6BF26964aF9D7eEd9e03E53415D37aA96045. With Web3, this cumbersome address becomes the more digestible “Vitalik.eth”. Initially, the primary function of these Web3 usernames was to facilitate crypto payments. However, with the progression of time and technology, the drive has been towards amplifying their utility, especially in communication.
XMTP: The Underlying Technology Ensuring Security and Continuity
The security and longevity of messages in this new system are of paramount importance. That’s where the extensible message transport protocol (XMTP) plays a pivotal role. By relying on XMTP, an independent protocol, messages are not only fully encrypted but also preserved, ensuring that users can access their messages even if UD ever ceases operations. “Your messages will be preserved and accessible to you no matter what happens to Unstoppable,” UD’s announcement emphasized.
Interestingly, UD isn’t the only entity striving to leverage the potential of Web3 usernames. On July 12, Coinbase Wallet also introduced an instant messaging system that allowed its users to communicate through their .eth or .cb.id usernames. By integrating with the Lens social media protocol via XMTP, this system greatly expanded the scope of its messaging utility. However, this system did not initially extend its services to usernames associated with UD, like those ending in .crypto or .polygon.
The Road to Decentralized Communication
Unstoppable Domains has showcased a commendable trajectory of partnerships and integrations. Notably, on April 26, UD forged a partnership with Binance.US, which enables users to register names ending in .BinanceUS. Moreover, UD recently harmonized its relationship with its competitor, Ethereum Name Service (ENS), allowing ENS’s .eth names to be accessible in the UD store.
But UD’s ambition doesn’t stop here. Plans are underway for an integration with Push Protocol. Once implemented, Web3 project owners will have the ability to sign up and receive notifications, thereby creating a more cohesive Web3 community.
Lisa DeLuca, senior director of engineering and product at Unstoppable Domains, encapsulated the enthusiasm surrounding this launch. In her words, UD truly believes in “utility over hype,” aiming to enhance the everyday usability of Web3 domains. The new messaging feature, she suggests, will serve a myriad of purposes – from organizing meet-ups with friends to negotiating NFT trades.
