Is Web3 messaging going to replace WhatsApp and iMessage? Co-founder of XMTP explains
Hashing It Out episode 24 explores Web3 messaging with Shane Mac, co-founder of XMTP — an open protocol and network for secure Web3 messaging — who explains the differences between Web2 and Web3 messaging. Mac also explains how Web3 messaging could spark major adoption for the entire industry moving forward, regardless of current user experience limitations.
Prior to XMTP, Shane founded Assist, which built the first business messaging for Facebook Messenger, Apple Business Chat, Google Business Messaging, and SMS. In this episode of Hashing It Out, Mac explains why he made the switch from building Web2 messaging platforms to building Web3 messaging. According to him, messaging must evolve based on new identities. He explains that phone messages (SMS) were built around mobile numbers while new social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram also came with new identities. Web3 offers a new form of identity where people have wealth and personality tied to wallet addresses but could not communicate with each other. He describes this new form of identity mixed with messaging as a "huge innovation" and a "huge opportunity."
Elisha GhCryptoGuy asks Mac if Web3 messaging was more than just a gimmick with Web3 branding. Mac explains that Web3 messaging provides a unique utility for users that Web2 messaging cannot. He argues that having all your conversations and connections stored on your private keys allows you to switch platforms and maintain your memories. Mac believes this is an important step in ensuring that users have full control over their information and how they interact on the internet.
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