Apple iOS Twitter users can now connect third-party tipping services to their profile! Apple iOS Twitter users will also include the ability to link both Bitcoin addresses and Lightning Network addresses.
Twitter also announced today that non-fungible token (NFT) verification features will be added to the platform. This is a key step in the evolution of the booming trend for unique digital art. A specific timeline was not laid out for the feature – it remains in development.
iOS users are able to take advantage of Twitter’s “tips” function immediately, while Android users will have to wait, as it will come to Android systems “soon”.
The feature is part of a push to increase the options that Twitter users have with large followings to monetize their content. It was not addressed as to whether or not the functionality will extend to Twitter on the web.
The tipping feature will rely on third-party payments services. Twitter is “not in the flow of funds” and won’t take a percentage of tipping proceeds. Different payments options and or tipping services will be available to users in different parts of the world. The only exception will be Bitcoin and Lightning options, which will be available to all Twitter users worldwide.
Jack Dorsey, Twitter’s CEO, foreshadowed the move back in June stating that it was “only a matter of time” before Twitter integrated lightning payments in some way. The Lightning Network is a “second layer” technology that allows users to make faster and lower-fee Bitcoin transactions. Dorsey is a long time supporter of Lightning, having invested in Lightning Labs’ $2.5 million seed funding round in 2018.
