In Web3, innovation can often seem like an all-or-nothing effort. Considering that the NFT space is fueled by decentralization and fueled by transformative ideologies surrounding the advent of crypto, AI, and non-fungibility, the tolerance level for technologies perceived as outdated feels significantly low.
However, the future that is currently being created on the blockchain is not necessarily a zero-sum game. against Web2. The truth is, sometimes iteration is the only way to go when starting a breakthrough technology. To create the world of tomorrow, we must learn from the world of the past.
While many links have already been established between the NFT space and more mainstream channels of consumerism, a new avenue has arrived with the potential to bring the masses into the strange and wide world of non-expendables. And it is… sending NFTs by email?
Inbox, Outbox, NFT
In recent years, unlock protocol it has become a popular one-stop-shop for developers looking to create and maintain membership and subscription-based NFTs. As an open source protocol, Unlock is considered a pioneer in membership contract management, mass airdrop mechanics, token activation, NFT ticketing, and more. Now this firmly Web3-focused service has taken a big step forward (back?) by implementing email airdrop capabilities into its list of tools.
In February 2023, Unlock Protocol Announced which had created the ability for NFTs to be airdropped directly via email. Expanding on already established tools that allow creators and developers to airdrop NFTs directly to a user’s wallet and notifying them via email, these same builders can now launch NFTs directly to a user via email, even if the recipient does not have a crypto wallet.
When someone receives an email with an NFT, they will receive an email with a link where they can view it, as well as a QR code that reveals the details of the NFT (which is certainly useful for the NFT ticketing use case of unlock). In the same email, the user can click a link to transfer the NFT to a self-custodial wallet.
Does it make sense to send NFTs via email in Web3?
The potential of this unique tool is evident. Considering the hurdles the average Joe must overcome to learn about NFTs and ultimately create his own wallet to start collecting, any service that claims to lower the barrier to entry to Web3 is an inherent win for the space. Good?
Well yes and no.
As mentioned above, there is a need for a bridge between web2 and web3. Because the only place Web3 users come from is web2. Similar to how the Proof of Attendance Protocol aims to commemorate the NFT experience and act as a user’s first foray into both membership rewards and Soulbound tokens (all from the safety of an email or UX of the app), Unlock’s email NFTs could give those outside the blockchain is another easy way to expose yourself to Web3.
But can email NFTs really act as a resource to onboard these web2 crowds? Similar to how major brands refuse to use the term NFT when venturing into the world of “digital collectibles,” a rose by any other name does. No it smells so sweet. Representing NFTs in this way is not necessarily helpful in properly communicating the feasibility of the technology.
There is also something to be said about the maximalists of Web3 innovation. For the countless people who have done their due diligence and jumped on the inside rung of NFT usability, sending tokens via email may seem like a step backwards, as it is far less innovative than transacting peer-to-peer and sending wallet NFTs. to wallet. .
Skepticism and reluctance aside, though, if you think the North Star of Web3 encourages mainstream adoption, then send the NFTs an email. do it makes sense as part of the larger initiative for web2 tech to become a steward of blockchain innovation. Although this centralized messaging technology may seem old-fashioned, considering that, in 2022, the total number of email users worldwide was estimated to be around 4.3 billionthose leading the charge to onboard the masses to the blockchain would be remiss to ignore its potential.
