Anatoly Yakovenko, the CEO and co-founder of Solana had a Steve Jobs moment when he launched the Saga, an Android web3-based smartphone in New York City.
What does Saga aim to do?
Saga tends to implement virtual asset products and services, so users can easily transact with their crypto via the device, as opposed to a laptop browser.
What else was launched at the event?
In addition to launching Saga, Yakovenko shared the launch of the Solana Mobile Stack, or SMS, which is a web3 layer for Solana developed on the phone.
What will SMS include?
SMS will include many products like a custody solution, a seed vault, a mobile wallet adapter, Solana Pay for Android, and its decentralized application (dApp) store. It offers a new set of libraries for apps and wallets, enabling developers to create rich mobile experiences on Solana.
What are the additional benefits?
Several cryptocurrency firms like Phantom, FTX, and Magic Eden will collaborate with SMS and there is also a $10 million developer fund for people who build applications on it.
Elaborate more about the features of the device
The $1000 device will have 6.67 inch OLED display with 512 GB of storage and is available for preorder with a $100 deposit and deliveries will take place in Q1 2023.
How will this launch affect Solana?
This launch seeks to bring Solana to Big Tech leagues, switching from only a crypto-centric world into one alongside Microsoft, Apple, and of course, Android. The attention on bringing more Web3 options to mobile gadgets can also increase the Solana ecosystem’s reach into mainstream audiences and can lure other cryptocurrency blockchains to do the same.
