Discord abandons plan to integrate crypto following backlash from users

  • Discord CEO earlier shared a screenshot that depicts the platform integrating with MetaMask and WalletConnect.
  • Citron has soon backtracked his statement claiming the firm has no current plan to ship this internal concept.

Jason Citron, CEO of Group chatting platform Discord last week shared a screenshot depicting the platform integrating with crypto wallet services and open source protocol that many mobile crypto wallets are built on, MetaMask and WalletConnect. He used the NFT Twitterverse phrase “probably nothing” to tease users and alert the public on their plans. In addition, Discord created a poll to get users’ ideas regarding their new NFT initiative. However, users have shown their displeasure with backlashes on the new idea by the firm. 

The concerned users claim Discord was introducing a technology that could damage their reputation with the attraction of scams to the environment. Some critics also argued that most NFT creators are known for stealing Arts from creators. 

These were initially thought to be the usual early-stage rejection of new implementations which was expected to be accepted with time but now some users threatened to cancel their Nitro subscriptions and their paid premium service that helps them stay ad-free. Even within Discord’s many NFT communities, some were concerned that the integration of the crypto wallets would be a gateway to scams and fraudulent activities. One user stated: 

Cancel your nitro immediately and select others – cite the CEO’s tweet about it as your reasoning why…A loud, immediate public drop in revenue is the only thing that will change it at this point. 

This tweet was liked over 20,000 times. 

Discord abandons the internal concept

In response to the backlashes, Citron backtracked his earlier statement claiming the firm has no current plan to ship this internal concept.

The firm also released a statement to clarify this whole situation.

We’re excited about the potential for web3 technology and the positive ways these communities are coming together on Discord, especially those organized around environmentally friendly, creator-focused projects. However, we also recognize, there are some problems we need to work through. For now we’re focused on protecting users from spams, scams and fraud.

Reports suggest that Discord has for some time been exploring blockchain technology and how it could accelerate its mission. With the current displeasure among users, Discord will re-evaluate its values and put some of them already started initiatives on hold. 

This year, Discord has seen the influx of thousands of NFT projects, of which many of those projects keep in touch with followers, track sales and market movements as well as send updates using a dedicated Discord server. It has also been the leading platform for coordinating distribution events. This is Where NFTs are minted and sold or shared among supporters before they make their way into trading platforms.