ERC-6551 is a token standard introduced on the Ethereum mainnet that aims to enhance the functionality of nonfungible tokens (NFTs) by adding smart contract capabilities. It assigns an Ethereum account to the NFT, creating a token-bound account (TBA) that allows NFTs to own assets and interact with applications directly. Developers can use TBAs to build smart contract wallets for each ERC-721 token, facilitating transactions and interactions with other decentralized applications (DApps), as well as acting as an on-chain identity. The ERC-6551 standard is backward-compatible with ERC-721, meaning that ERC-721 tokens can adopt ERC-6551 without significant modifications.
One improvement of ERC-6551 over ERC-721 is that it allows NFTs to be associated with other on-chain assets, making it easier to create digital assets representing multiple real-world assets. It also enables compatibility with DApps and smart contracts across the Ethereum ecosystem. ERC-6551 solves the problem of inflexibility in ERC-721 NFTs by accommodating additional data and values. It also provides more detailed information about an asset’s utility and transaction history, leading to a better understanding of its value and past interactions. ERC-6551 supports integrating NFTs with related assets, enabling asset transfers and coherence between platforms.
Implementing ERC-6551 allows NFTs to be used as on-chain identities, facilitating interaction with on-chain smart contracts and DApps. It uses an open registry system in sync with existing ERC-721 tokens as a creation hub and management tool for TBAs. Through a proxy contract, TBAs can authenticate signatures and sign messages on behalf of the NFT, enabling engagement with various smart contracts on the network.
ERC-6551 has various use cases, such as enhancing the fashion industry by allowing on-chain avatars to own digital clothing and enabling trading features. In gaming, it allows avatars to accumulate and exchange assets and cryptocurrencies, as well as monetize in-game assets through playable characters. B2C businesses can leverage ERC-6551’s transaction history to design in-game rewards and loyalty programs. TBAs can also serve as identification for DAO members, streamlining their interaction with DAOs.
There are some limitations to ERC-6551. Existing NFT projects that use different methods may not be compatible with the ERC-6551 standard, and there is a learning curve for developers to efficiently use the new token. Some platforms may choose not to integrate with ERC-6551 for business reasons. As ERC-6551 tokens gain popularity, they may become targets for hackers due to their ownership of assets and interaction with applications.
Using TBAs as identification for DAO members seems unnecessary. DAOs already have their own systems in place.
The gaming industry is in for a major transformation with the capabilities offered by ERC-6551! Exciting times lie ahead for gamers with the ability to accumulate, exchange, and monetize in-game assets.
Monetizing in-game assets through playable characters sounds like a cash grab. It’s ruining the gaming experience.
Who’s to say platforms won’t just ignore ERC-6551? They have their own business strategies to follow.