Jack Dorsey Urges Signal to Integrate Bitcoin for P2P Payments

Jack Dorsey, the former CEO of Twitter and a prominent advocate for Bitcoin, has publicly urged Signal Messenger to integrate Bitcoin for peer-to-peer (P2P) payments. Dorsey's call comes as part of a broader push to enhance privacy and security in digital communications. He has suggested that Signal, known for its end-to-end encryption, could further bolster its privacy features by adopting Bitcoin for seamless P2P transactions. This move would align with Dorsey's long-standing advocacy for Bitcoin, which he sees as a more private and secure alternative to traditional payment methods.

Dorsey's proposal is not just about adding a new payment option; it is about leveraging Bitcoin's decentralized nature to provide users with greater control over their financial transactions. By integrating Bitcoin, Signal could offer a payment system that is resistant to censorship and surveillance, thereby enhancing user privacy. This integration would also support the growing trend of using cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions, making it easier for users to send and receive payments without relying on traditional banking systems.

The call for Bitcoin integration comes at a time when there is increasing interest in the use of cryptocurrencies for P2P payments. Many experts believe that Bitcoin's decentralized and secure nature makes it an ideal choice for such transactions. By adopting Bitcoin, Signal could set a precedent for other messaging platforms, encouraging them to explore similar integrations. This could lead to a more widespread adoption of cryptocurrencies in everyday transactions, further solidifying their role in the digital economy.

Dorsey's advocacy for Bitcoin is well-known, and his influence in the tech industry could play a significant role in driving this change. His support for Signal's potential integration of Bitcoin highlights the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies as a viable payment option. As more platforms adopt Bitcoin for P2P payments, it could lead to a more decentralized and secure financial ecosystem, benefiting users and businesses alike.

Founded in 2014, Signal is an open-source secure messenger with messaging, voice, and video calling capabilities. The platform offers embedded payments using MobileCoin (MTCN), a privacy-oriented ERC-20 token that was renamed Sentz in November 2023. Backed by prominent industry players such as BlockTower Capital and Coinbase Ventures, the Sentz project was founded in 2017 by Josh Goldbard and Shane Glynn. The main mission of the project is to create a "fast, private, and easy-to-use cryptocurrency."

The integration of MobileCoin into Signal in 2021 sparked a wave of criticism. Many expressed concerns about the potential ties between Signal's founder and the MTCN team, the lack of transparency in token issuance, and the suspicious rate hike before the partnership was announced. Despite the criticism, Signal continues to support MobileCoin (now Sentz) as the only option for embedded payments, according to the messenger's official website.

The integration of Bitcoin into Signal could be a significant step towards mass adoption of the first cryptocurrency and strengthening its position as a universal means of payment. Dorsey's call was echoed by other industry leaders. Former PayPal president David Marcus said that "all applications should be connected to Bitcoin." These statements reflect a growing desire to promote Bitcoin as a functional payment system, not just "digital gold" or a way to save. According to Dorsey, the savings feature alone is not enough to ensure Bitcoin's long-term success.