Popular messaging app Line has announced plans to integrate dApps into its app and compete directly with Telegram in the messaging app dApps space.
Line, the popular Japanese messaging app with over 196 million active users worldwide, is about to make a significant shift in its technological strategy. Starting in 2025, the Japanese platform will introduce 30 mini-decentralized applications (dApps) into its ecosystem, with the intention of expanding to 150 dApps by the end of the first quarter of 2025. This initiative, led by Sam Seo, president of the company, will allow Line to launch a new platform that will allow users to access the platform's services. Kaia DLT Foundation, seeks to transform the user experience by integrating blockchain technologies in an intuitive and accessible way.
Line’s move reflects a growing trend in the world of social media, where platforms like Telegram have already made inroads into developing blockchain-based games and apps. However, Line is no stranger to the challenges that come with adopting decentralized technologies. The company previously launched an NFT marketplace in Japan, but found limitations in the complexity of the user experience and a lack of understanding about the true value of NFTs.
A diversified and user-friendly approach
Line’s initial 30 dApps will span a wide range of categories, including gaming, social apps, decentralized finance (DeFi) tools, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based chatbots. Sam Seo highlighted that gaming will be the most significant component of this first wave, but the platform will not be limited to this sector. «Gaming is the biggest part, but we will also have social apps, some DeFi and AI-based chatbots,» Seo explained.
This diversified approach seeks to address the needs and preferences of Line users, which extend beyond simple messaging. The inclusion of social apps and DeFi tools responds to the growing demand for decentralized financial services, while AI-powered chatbots promise to improve interaction and personalization within the platform.
Learning from past mistakes
Line’s decision to enter the world of dApps is not an impulsive step. The company has carefully studied the experiences of other platforms that have tried to integrate blockchain technologies, such as Instagram and Reddit. These platforms faced resistance from users due to the complexity and lack of clarity in the use of NFTs.
Sam Seo acknowledged that in the past, NFTs were often perceived more as investment tools than digital ownership platforms. «Previously, users and creators viewed NFTs only as an investment tool, which created a mismatch between intention and outcome,» Seo pointed out.
Line has taken note of these challenges and has set out to create a simpler and more accessible user experience. The company has worked on improving the interface and functionality of its dApps to make them intuitive and easy to use, even for those with no prior knowledge of blockchain.
Expanding the Line ecosystem
The introduction of dApps on Line is not only a step towards technological innovation but also a strategy to strengthen and expand its ecosystem. With a user base spanning Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia, Line has a unique opportunity to introduce blockchain technologies to a mass audience. The company plans to leverage its experience in app development and understanding of the market to create dApps that are not only engaging but also useful and relevant to its users.
The diversity of the dApps proposed by Line reflects its commitment to offering a complete and enriching experience. Games, for example, are not only a form of entertainment, but also a great way to introduce users to blockchain technologies in a playful and engaging way. Social apps and DeFi tools, on the other hand, seek to address practical and financial needs, while AI-based chatbots promise to improve interaction and personalization within the platform.
Transforming blockchain into a mainstream technology
One of Line’s main goals is to transform blockchain from a niche technology into a mainstream service. To achieve this, the company has placed special emphasis on simplifying the user experience. Line understands that mass adoption of blockchain technologies depends heavily on ease of use and understanding of its benefits. Therefore, it has strived to create dApps that are intuitive and offer real value to users, beyond mere technological novelty.
Line’s strategy is based on the idea that blockchain can be a powerful tool to improve the user experience in multiple aspects. Whether through the creation of more interactive and personalized games, the facilitation of secure and transparent financial transactions, or the enhancement of social interaction, Line’s dApps seek to demonstrate that blockchain can be an accessible and relevant technology for everyone.
A bet on the future
Line’s decision to enter the world of dApps is more than just a technological upgrade. It is a bet on the future of digital communication and social interaction. In a world where emerging technologies are redefining the way we connect and relate, Line is taking an active role in creating a more inclusive and decentralized ecosystem.
The company is not only adapting to current technological trends, but is also helping to shape them. By integrating blockchain technologies in an intuitive and accessible way, Line is laying the groundwork for a future where these technologies are an integral part of everyday digital life.
