Global bitcoin payments service, Strike, announced at Bitcoin 2023 in Miami Beach that its service is now available in an additional 65 countries across six continents. The update coincides with the introduction of the ability to receive funds in US dollar equivalents, namely USDT. The app also received a major facelift and overhaul, resulting in a cleaner UI and friendlier UX, as well as a new logo. With an effective reach of 3 billion people, the app now allows users in many of the countries requested on Bitcoin Twitter to instantly send and receive money utilizing the Lightning Network.
In an interview with Strike’s VP of Product, Manuela Rios, she explained that the app’s “Send Globally” feature allows users to send dollars and receive local currency directly in a bank account on the other side. However, in jurisdictions with weak currencies, users requested a dollar equivalent. In response, Strike now allows users to buy and sell bitcoin via dollar equivalent rails on its Lightning wallet.
During his speech at Bitcoin 2023, Strike CEO Jack Mallers explained the wider vision of the updates, saying that the company is delivering a cash balance that the global south can rely on. He also highlighted the company’s response to feedback, displaying a set of tweets asking for LNURL support, shortly after announcing that the new app has LNURL support.
The app includes a simplified sign-up process to make it easier for users to join. Rios explained that the end goal is to serve 7-8 billion people, and the company will be stepping its way to make it to the countries that didn’t make it in this MVP.
The launch and additional features have a significant impact on both Bitcoiners and those not yet familiar with bitcoin. For Bitcoiners, the app provides a beautiful Lightning wallet and a cost-effective way to buy bitcoin. For those familiar with 109% inflation but not bitcoin, giving them access to a US dollar equivalent stablecoin is massive, as they can now save in something that won’t be quickly devalued.
About the author - J-S Tremblay
I've been involved in the cryptocurrency world since 2016 and trading since 2019. I started Moon and Lambo in 2021. I'm passionate about crypto and love to share my knowledge. I hate bankers and I hope that cryptocurrency will change the financial world for the better. View full profile...
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