FROM A FILE SHARING SERVICE TO AN UPDATED, NFT-FOCUSED MARKETPLACE!
Limewire, the once-loved “file-sharing service,” was set to return in March as an updated, NFT-focused version. And today, the redesigned Limewire has reopened as a marketplace for them.
Limewire, resurrected by Austrian entrepreneurs Paul and Julian Zehetmayr, now plans to bring digital collectibles to everyone. The platform’s relaunch coincides with the announcement of some pretty big artists releasing NFTs on the forum, including Blink-182 drummer (and Mr. Kourtney Kardashian) Travis Barker.
Dillon Francis, singer and actor Nicky Jam, Grammy-winning singer Brandy, A$AP Mob’s A$AP TyY, and British rapper Aitch are also on the bill. But, of course, celebrities and personalities entering the crypto world is nothing new. Still, Limewire’s announcement shows that the trend isn’t slowing down.
The new marketplace, which focuses on music, offers a variety of original songs, visual artworks, backstage passes, and other in-person opportunities. For example, Barker’s NFT is a genuine drum kit, and Brandy offers a “collaborative flower bouquet NFT with accompanying spoken word.” The possibilities are truly limitless. On July 7, Grammy-winning producer 7 Aurelius will release the first drop.
The company is emphasizing its “Originals,” a limited collection of 10,000 original NFTs that live on the Ethereum blockchain. Owning one of these grants access to invite-only events, token rewards, and an early NFT drop pass. These NFTs are issued in stages, and there is a waiting list. According to our understanding, Limewire Originals intends to function as a membership level in the Limewire community.
Limewire reports that the company wants to appeal to a broader range of consumers by eliminating the need for a crypto wallet. Instead, potential buyers will be able to pay with credit cards. In addition, Limewire will handle the NFT gas fees or the costs required to compensate for the computational energy necessary to process transactions in the blockchain as part of the alleged focus on user experience. Phew.
Limewire will also handle any “technical obstacles on behalf of users,” whatever they may be.
It’s not quite the Limewire of the 2000s, but it’s here to stay…for as long as NFTs exist.
