Metamask Introduces Snaps: A New Era of Interoperability
Metamask, the popular Web3 wallet, has unveiled a groundbreaking feature called ‘Snaps’ that expands its capabilities beyond Ethereum. This development is set to benefit both developers and users of Metamask, as it enables interoperability and compatibility with different non-EVM blockchains.
The idea for Snaps originated from a proposal by Dan Finlay, the co-lead developer at Metamask, to create a platform where developers can build permissionless solutions that integrate with the wallet. After extensive progress, this concept has now become a reality with the introduction of Metamask Snaps in Extension v11.0+.
Metamask defines Snaps as innovative features developed by third parties that users can install directly into their wallets without needing permission. This functionality allows anyone to add features from independent developers to their Metamask wallet.
“Snaps run in a sandboxed environment and use a permissions model to protect your data and respect your consent. Snaps do not have access to your MetaMask account data. When installing a Snap, make sure you understand what permissions you are granting.”
Metamask collaborated with approximately 150 different developers to bring this new functionality to life. The launch of Snaps represents a significant leap forward for innovation within Metamask and propels the decentralization movement into a new era.
Snaps Enable Interoperability with Non-EVM Blockchains
At the time of launch, Metamask’s snap directory includes 34 integrated snaps ready for use by crypto investors. One of the main categories of allowlisted Snaps focuses on enabling interoperability and compatibility between Metamask and non-EVM blockchains such as Solana, Bitcoin, Algorand, and Cosmos. Notable examples include Solflare Wallet and Drift Labs’ integrations of Solana wallets, which allow investors to easily swap, stake, and connect to Solana Dapps.
The BTCSnap is another noteworthy product that allows users to manage BTC directly within Metamask without the need for token wrapping. Additionally, the Algorand Snap by Algorand Foundation enables the management, swapping, and transferring of accounts directly with Metamask.
Other interoperability-focused snaps include Tezos-Metamask-Snap, CubeSigner, Cosmosnap, Consensys/Starknet Snap, and Mina Portal.
Notification and Transaction Insight Snaps
In addition to interoperability Snaps, Metamask has also introduced Notification and Transaction Insight features. Notification Snaps provide chat features and notifications within Metamask itself. Examples include Push Snap by Push V1 and Walletchat-Metamask Snap.
Transaction Insight Snaps offer detailed analysis of blockchain transactions. Some examples are Forta network-Metamask Snap, risk detect-snap, Blockfence-insights, Tenderly Snap, and Wallet Guard.
Hot Take: Embracing Innovation with Metamask Snaps
The introduction of Metamask Snaps marks an exciting development in the world of Web3 wallets. By allowing developers to build permissionless solutions that integrate seamlessly with Metamask, this feature opens up new possibilities for innovation and collaboration. With its emphasis on interoperability and compatibility with non-EVM blockchains, Metamask is positioning itself as a versatile and user-friendly wallet for crypto enthusiasts. The launch of Snaps demonstrates Metamask’s commitment to decentralization and empowers users to customize their wallet experience according to their preferences. As the crypto ecosystem continues to evolve, Metamask Snaps are set to play a significant role in shaping the future of decentralized finance.
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