Base App: Coinbases Bold Bet on Cryptos First Everything App
Coinbase is launching a new "everything app" called Base, aiming to combine social media, payments, trading, and messaging in one platform. It's designed to attract users beyond existing crypto enthusiasts by offering features like direct content monetization for creators (where every post can be bought using Zora), high-yield savings accounts with up to 4.1% APY on USDC holdings, and free global USDC payments. Users can get 1% cash back when using USDC for purchases with integrated Shopify merchants. The app uses a universal identity system for easy sign-in across different platforms. The original Coinbase Wallet will continue to operate separately. The strategy is to diversify Coinbase's revenue beyond just crypto trading and appeal to users who might not be interested in buying or selling cryptocurrencies. To use the app one must join a waitlist at base.app.