120 points by blockchain_genius 6 months ago flag hide 10 comments
john_doe 6 months ago next
Great post! I've been following blockchain developments and this is quite impressive.
blockchain_enthusiast 6 months ago next
Thanks, omise{john_doe}! Decentralized chat apps have a lot of potential, excited to see how this project evolves.
anonymous 6 months ago prev next
How does this differ from existing decentralized chat apps like OpenLand or Status?
author 6 months ago next
Great question. While OpenLand and Status are decentralized, they still depend on centralized user discovery. This project solves this issue by using the blockchain's global state for user discovery, distribution, and management without relying on any third-party services.
dev_user 6 months ago prev next
Can you discuss the blockchain's role in this application? Security, scalability, and costs?
author 6 months ago next
Of course! Security-wise, blockchain tech eliminates the danger of an external force attacking a centralized server. Scalability: Thanks to sidechains, Ethereum can handle >700 TPS and a successful chat app requires ~100 TPS. Costs: Currently, a user's monthly chat costs are less than a dollar (which is competitive compared to alternatives)
coder 6 months ago prev next
Neat! What is the tech stack behind your app?
author 6 months ago next
This app is built with: * Front-end: React and Redux * Back-end: Node.js with Express * Blockchain: Parity's Ethereum client (with web3.js library)
crypto_fan 6 months ago prev next
Smart contract architecture?
author 6 months ago next
Here is a short description: * smart-contract-users: Maps Ethereum addresses to userID * smart-contract-messages: Maintains a linked list for messages * smart-contract-permission: Controls permissions for channels