ICP blockchain chat app launches ‘Communities’ to rival Discord.
ICP blockchain chat app launches 'Communities' to rival Discord.
Exploring OpenChat Communities: Building Connections on the Blockchain
Introduction
The blockchain industry continues to innovate and evolve, with new projects and applications constantly emerging. One such project is OpenChat, a blockchain-based chat app running on the Internet Computer (ICP) network. OpenChat recently introduced a new feature called Communities, which allows users to create Discord-like servers. This article will delve into the details of OpenChat Communities, its purpose, and the potential impact it may have on the blockchain industry.
OpenChat: A Chat App for the Crypto Community
OpenChat is a chat app designed to cater to the needs of the crypto-oriented community. It boasts numerous chat groups dedicated to various crypto-related topics, with some groups amassing thousands of members. Examples include LootMoneyArmy with 3,201 members, Magnetic with 2,703 members, and DFinityVN with 2,597 members. OpenChat’s initial intention was to function as an instant messaging app, similar to well-known platforms like WhatsApp or Signal. However, they quickly realized that users were using the app in a different manner.
Introducing OpenChat Communities
In February, the OpenChat development team acknowledged the user’s preference for creating public groups and building communities on the platform. Unlike apps such as Discord or Slack, OpenChat lacked a hierarchical system necessary for group admins to create subgroups focused on specific topics. As a result, the effectiveness of groups on OpenChat was compromised.
To address this limitation, the team introduced the concept of Communities. This new feature aims to enhance OpenChat’s group functionality by enabling admins to create distinct communities and subsequently establish subgroups within them. The model is reminiscent of Discord’s channels within servers, but with added flexibility. Furthermore, community admins have the option to make their communities private, allowing for a Slack-like experience where conversations can remain exclusive to selected participants.
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The Launch of Communities and Future Integrations
According to a recent announcement on August 2nd, the OpenChat Communities feature has officially been launched and is now available within the app. OpenChat co-founder Julian Jelfs further elaborated on the potential of this feature. In an interview with Cointelegraph, Jelfs stated that the goal is to eventually allow projects to integrate OpenChat Communities directly into their own websites. This integration would eliminate the need for external applications, such as Discord or Slack, and provide a seamless user experience.
Jelfs also shared that OpenChat is experimenting with various designs for this future integration system. One concept being explored is “server-to-server synchronization” between OpenChat and each project, enabling real-time chat and support functionalities. Alternatively, OpenChat may develop a set of front-end components that projects can easily integrate into their interfaces. This approach would empower users of Web3 protocols to chat with other users and receive technical support without navigating away from the apps they are using.
While the “integrations” feature will not be available at the launch of Communities, it is a planned addition for a later patch. This illustrates OpenChat’s commitment to not only providing a robust chat app but also serving as a foundational element in the broader blockchain ecosystem.
Bridging the Gap: Web3 Identity Integration
Discord and Telegram are popular messaging apps within the crypto community. However, these Web2 platforms lack the ability to post messages using Web3 identities. This limitation creates opportunities for scammers to deceive users by falsely claiming ownership of wallets.
OpenChat is one of many projects striving to address this issue. By allowing Ethereum wallet holders to chat using their Ethereum usernames, OpenChat is bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3 platforms. Other projects, such as Grill.chat, are also exploring similar solutions. Coinbase wallet recently introduced a messaging feature, signaling the growing movement towards integrating chat functionality into wallets.
Conclusion
OpenChat’s introduction of Communities signifies a significant step forward in the realm of blockchain-based communication platforms. With this new feature, OpenChat aims to provide a user-friendly environment for crypto enthusiasts to connect, discuss, and collaborate. By allowing communities to flourish and integrating with other Web3 projects, OpenChat is positioning itself as an essential tool in the blockchain ecosystem. As the industry continues to evolve, innovations like OpenChat Communities pave the way for a more integrated and seamless blockchain experience.
