Apple's iOS 18 update now includes a two-step contact sharing flow, giving users more control but potentially hindering app distribution through contact lists. While this move towards user control is positive, Apple still limits hardware and software choices, tying users to the App Store.
Developers already face challenges in building, marketing, and getting their apps discovered. This new hurdle to social sharing, a powerful distribution tool, raises concerns.
The update highlights the ongoing debate between user control and developer flexibility. Some argue that infrastructure can be open, scalable, cost-effective, and provide excellent control for both developers and users - a vision that alternative platforms like Lens are committed to building.
The new iOS 18 Apple update includes a two-step contact sharing flow for users. While this means more control for the users, it hinders the developers' abilities to distribute their app through contact lists. x.com/andrewchen/sta…
How iOS 18 is about to nerf mobile inviting -- and a brief history of viral growth from email to FB apps to SMS First, here's the punchline: Soon the world will update to iOS 18, and it will add significant friction for users to invite their friends, hurting the growth prospects
Lens Protocol Announces ZKstack Integration for Scaling
Lens Protocol has announced its integration with ZKstack technology to enhance scalability. This strategic move positions the decentralized social network to potentially serve billions of users. - The implementation leverages ZKsync for improved transaction processing - Platform aims to compete directly with traditional Web2 social networks - Focus on maintaining decentralization while scaling operations The integration marks a significant technical milestone for Lens Protocol's infrastructure, enabling faster and more efficient social interactions while preserving blockchain security benefits.
Lens Holiday Hackathon Launches with 50,000 GHO Prize Pool
The Lens Holiday Hackathon is now live, running from December 16th to January 7th. Key details: - Total prize pool: 50,000 GHO tokens - Community-driven judging through onchain voting - Voting platform: JokeRace.io - Open to all participants Projects will receive direct feedback from Lens super users who will evaluate submissions through onchain voting. This provides builders with valuable validation while competing for prizes. Visit lens.xyz/news/lens-holiday-hackathon to learn more and participate.
Instant Withdrawals Now Available on Lens

**Lens introduces instant withdrawals for developers and users:** - No minimum amounts required - No waiting periods - Powered by validium technology This update streamlines the payment process, allowing for immediate access to funds. It builds on the trend of instant payments in the web3 space, following earlier innovations like Beam's onchain instant payment system. The move towards instant transactions aims to improve user experience and reduce friction in web3 financial interactions. *To learn more about Lens's new instant withdrawal feature, visit their official platform.*
Turkey Bans Discord, Highlighting Need for Resilient Social Networks
Turkey has implemented a ban on Discord, following a similar move by Russia. This development underscores the growing trend of internet censorship in various countries. - The ban potentially limits digital communication and innovation - It emphasizes the importance of building resilient, decentralized social networks - Such restrictions could have far-reaching implications for online communities These events serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of centralized platforms to government intervention. As censorship increases globally, the need for robust, censorship-resistant social networks becomes more apparent. *Call to Action*: Stay informed about internet freedom issues and support initiatives promoting open, decentralized communication platforms.
Lens Protocol Introduces Validiums for Efficient Social Media Storage

Lens Protocol is implementing validiums to revolutionize social media data storage. This innovative approach allows for: - Off-chain storage of posts, comments, and likes - Improved speed and affordability compared to traditional blockchain storage - Maintained user control and security Validiums offer a solution to the challenges of storing vast amounts of social media data on the blockchain. By combining blockchain security with off-chain efficiency, Lens aims to provide: - Fast and cost-effective social media interactions - Enhanced user experience without compromising decentralization This development marks a significant step towards making blockchain-based social platforms more practical and user-friendly.