In an innovative move, Bitcoin wallet startup Mutiny released a beta version of what they claim to be the first self-custodial Lightning wallet that operates via the web. Bypassing the potential restrictions of app distributors like Apple or Google, the firm appears to be responding to reported instances of Bitcoin product censorship. These include prohibiting Bitcoin-based payments of digital content on apps such as the decentralized social media platform, Damus.
A solution to these payment problems, known as Zapple Pay, was released by two of Mutiny’s founders. This unique method of payment enables Bitcoin tipping, utilizing emojis as a trigger. Mutiny CEO, Tony Giorgio, singles out this web-based wallet and its unrestricted innovative abilities as their key selling point.
Their wallet, unlike competitors like Phoenix and Muun, operates as a PWA – a progressive web app. This allows for continuous upgrades and updates, avoiding confinements like those of Apple and Google app stores.
Unveiling significant features included in the web platform, Mutiny presents a solution to Lightning’s most significant provoking issue — liquidity management. With just-in-time channels, the burden of managing channel liquidity, the capacity to send and receive funds on Lightning, Bitcoin’s second layer payment network, is alleviated.
Moreover, the wallet includes a social tipping feature via the Nostr Wallet Connect (NWC) protocol. This integration stimulates tips or “zaps,” maintaining possibilities for subscribers to come up with newer ways to pay for products and services. Mutiny’s launch of Zapple Pay allowed users to facilitate zaps via emojis which, apart from being fun and intuitive, meant Damus users could continue dispensing tips for posts despite Apple’s restrictions.
Lastly, further to its numerous innovative features, the firm tactfully highlighted the product’s Beta stage status. The goal has not only been to prepare the market for not fully perfected functionality but also to involve users in the bug-fixing and refinement process. Although these bugs are not discussed in detail, the company urges users to test the wallet, promising a quick resolution of identified bugs and new feature updates.
While Mutiny’s web-based approach may sidestep some potential hurdles, it flies directly in the face of others, particularly those related to extensive support and distribution networks enjoyed by traditional apps. Despite these challenges, Mutiny’s novel approach to building an unrestricted platform can be seen as a testament to the adaptability of the Blockchain community— a drive that keeps pushing boundaries, always in search of innovation and change.
Source: Coindesk
