Web3 technology is rapidly evolving, and traditional wallets like MetaMask and Ledger are no longer the only options for blockchain interactions. Enter thirdweb's smart wallets, powered by account abstraction (ERC-4337). These wallets redefine user experience with programmable logic, gasless transactions, and enhanced security features.
In this guide, we’ll explore the transformative potential of smart wallets, compare them to traditional Web3 wallets, and demonstrate how to integrate them into your app for seamless blockchain interactions.
What Are Thirdweb Smart Wallets?
Thirdweb smart wallets leverage account abstraction, enabling next-gen features like:
- Gasless transactions (sponsored by apps or paymasters)
- Batched transactions (reducing gas fees)
- Custom token spending rules (e.g., subscriptions)
- No private key management (lowering entry barriers for non-crypto users)
Unlike externally owned accounts (EOAs) like MetaMask, smart wallets use smart contract logic for advanced functionality.
The Evolution of Smart Wallets
Traditional Web3 Wallets (EOAs)
- Operate via public/private key pairs.
- Require signatures for every transaction.
- Limited to basic sends/receives.
Smart Contract Wallets
- Programmable logic enables conditional/timed transactions.
- Support session keys for signless interactions.
- Allow account recovery via social logins or multi-signatures.
👉 Discover how smart wallets enhance blockchain apps
Key Features of Smart Wallets
1. Signless Transactions
- Use session keys to bypass repetitive signatures.
- Enable seamless logins via passkeys, email proofs, or government IDs.
2. Batched Transactions
- Execute multiple actions in one click (e.g., shopping carts).
- Save up to 40% in gas fees compared to single transactions.
3. Gasless Experiences
- Apps can sponsor gas fees via paymasters.
- Users pay fees in ERC-20 tokens (not just native crypto).
4. Advanced Security
- Social recovery or multi-sig backups.
- Pre-audited smart contracts for safety.
Why Use Smart Wallets?
For Developers
- Scale apps with batched transactions.
- Simplify onboarding with passkey logins.
- Sponsor gas to attract users.
For Users
- No seed phrases to manage.
- Faster interactions with signless transactions.
- Lower costs via gas optimization.
How Thirdweb Smart Wallets Work
Account Factory Contracts
- Deploy per-user smart accounts on first transaction.
- Compatible with thirdweb Engine and external paymasters.
Customizable Rules
- Set gas sponsorship limits to prevent abuse.
- Choose signing methods (e.g., email, social logins).
Metered Billing
- Pay only for actual usage (no upfront costs).
Getting Started
Integration Steps
- Get an API Key: Sign up on thirdweb.
- Choose an SDK: React, TypeScript, .NET, or Unity.
Enable Features:
- Gasless mode (
sponsorGas: true). - Batched transactions.
- Gasless mode (
// Example: React Integration
import { ConnectButton } from "thirdweb/react";
<ConnectButton
accountAbstraction={{
chain: "Polygon",
sponsorGas: true
}}
/>FAQ
1. Are smart wallets secure?
Yes! They use audited smart contracts and support multi-sig recovery.
2. Can I sponsor gas for users?
Absolutely. Use thirdweb’s paymaster or integrate your own.
3. Which chains are supported?
EVM-compatible networks (Polygon, Ethereum, etc.).
4. Do users need crypto knowledge?
No. Smart wallets abstract complexity (e.g., passkey logins).
5. How much does it cost?
Pay-as-you-go pricing; no upfront fees.
Conclusion
Thirdweb smart wallets unlock faster, cheaper, and more accessible blockchain interactions. By adopting account abstraction, you can:
- Remove friction (gas fees, signatures).
- Scale efficiently (batched transactions).
- Onboard anyone (passwordless logins).