Coinbase Launches ‘Base App,’ a Web3 Super App for Creators

Coinbase has launched the Base App, a rebranded version of its Coinbase Wallet, aiming to create a crypto-native “super app” that integrates trading, payments, social media, and AI functionalities.

Built on Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer-2 network, Base, the app features a Farcaster-powered social feed for tokenizing and monetizing posts, NFC-enabled USDC payments via Base Pay, and encrypted messaging through XMTP.

It also includes AI agents and mini-apps for enhanced user engagement. Currently in beta for waitlisted users, the app leverages Base’s “Flashblocks” upgrade for 200ms block times, supporting 32 million active users and $4 billion in assets.

Coinbase aims to rival WeChat by offering low-fee, blockchain-based services, with Shopify integrating USDC payments and plans for 1% cashback in the U.S. The move diversifies Coinbase’s revenue beyond trading fees and targets broader consumer adoption.

Base Pay

Base Pay is a feature of Coinbase’s Base App, enabling users to make fast, low-cost payments using USDC (a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar) on Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer-2 network, Base.

It leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, allowing users to tap their devices to pay at supported merchants or transfer funds to other Base App users. The system is designed for seamless, crypto-based transactions with minimal fees, supported by Base’s “Flashblocks” upgrade, which delivers 200ms block times for near-instant confirmations.

Shopify has integrated Base Pay for USDC payments, and Coinbase plans to offer 1% cashback on transactions in the U.S., aiming to drive adoption of crypto payments in everyday commerce.