TipLink Aims for Crypto Newcomers With Google-Powered Solana Wallet

Solana {{SOL}} crypto wallet startup TipLink is making a play for blockchain newcomers with a service that takes wallet browser extensions out of the equation.

Called the TipLink Wallet Adapter, it creates an in-browser wallet linked to one’s Google account, eliminating the need to set up a less user-friendly Phantom, Solflare, or other wallet before receiving any tokens.

“It unlocks the rest of the world for easy onboarding,” said CEO Ian Krotinsky.

TipLink’s developers are betting that the workaround will have stronger appeal for the vast majority of internet users who do not have a crypto wallet or the knowledge or desire to set up one. Instead, they can grab a link to a wallet, log in with popular credentials, and go.

This may offend the most committed advocates of custody rights, namely those for whom the phrase “not your keys, not your coins” rings loudest. But Krotinsky isn’t worried about catering to this crowd. He said the app hides users’ private keys somewhere out of easy reach to limit the possibility of accidentally handing them over to phishers. Google’s security protocols go a long way, especially for users using two-factor authentication.

“Right now it’s probably not where users would store a million dollars,” Krotinsky said, adding that the team was working to add “more layers of security” over time.

TipLink, for example, operates in something like a walled garden for dapps. According to a promotional video shared with CoinDesk, it will only interact with programs that have been vetted to ensure they are not malicious or stealing user funds.

TipLink is also developing a “Pro” service to help developers distribute their crypto to hundreds or thousands of users with links through campaigns.