Bitcoin’s Lightning Network just got a big boost: 7 new apps, and a glimpse at a super-fast, open-source future.
This week, Blockstream showcased a #WeekofLApps, each day presenting a new, open-source Lightning App (“LApp”) on the Lightning Network, Bitcoin’s second-layer payment protocol. Because Lightning transactions are not recorded on a blockchain, payments are instant and carry near-zero fees. This allows for all sorts of micropayment possibilities not previously available online.
Here’s a rundown of the seven LApps that Blockstream presented this week–all designed by Nadav Ivgi–and that are now free for the world to take, use, and improve:
1. FileBazaar
(enabling digital content creators to sell files online)
What it does: FileBazaar enables creators of digital content (photos, songs, videos, documents, etc.) to sell digital files online and accept micropayments on the Lightning Network for their work. Creators are in full control of their work, and can list files, set prices, and decide where they want to receive the payment. They can also give viewers a preview–access to some of the file, like the first 30 seconds of a song–before prompting a micropayment to access the rest.
Why it’s awesome: FileBazaar offers digital artists, musicians, writers, and filmmakers an alternative means to make money from their work, in addition or instead of advertising revenue or monthly Patreon subscriptions. Consumers get to pay artists directly with near-zero-fee transactions that clear instantly — no iTunes required.
Source/More: A guide to Blockstream’s Week of Lightning Apps (LApps) – Crypto Insider