Aptos is steering a new course in the cryptocurrency landscape by championing the rise of Web2.5 platforms—an intriguing blend of Web2 and Web3 technologies that appear to be filling their coffers with substantial revenue. Speaking at the Token2049 event in Dubai, Ash Pampati, the head of ecosystem at Aptos, shed light on this trend, underscoring the significant gains these consumer-focused platforms are making within the Aptos ecosystem.
Aptos’ Web2.5 Approach: A Winning Formula?
Web2.5, a term not yet ubiquitous but increasingly relevant, describes platforms that meld the user-friendly aspects of Web2 with the decentralized ethos of Web3. This hybrid model eschews full decentralization, often attracting criticism for not wholly adhering to the Web3 ideal. Yet, according to Pampati, these platforms are flourishing, especially those prioritizing distribution and fan loyalty.
“We see a lot of great consumer Web2.5 platforms emerging,” Pampati noted, emphasizing that these ventures are not only carving out their niche but also generating “tons of revenue” thanks to their focus on delivering exceptional consumer experiences. Aptos’ Meta heritage plays a crucial role here, providing a developer stack designed to smooth out the rough edges of Web3, making it more accessible and, crucially, scalable to Web2-like proportions.
The strategy seems to be paying off. By harnessing the best of both worlds, Aptos is nurturing applications that promise the scale and usability of Web2 without sidelining Web3 principles entirely—a balancing act that appears to be resonating with developers and users alike. This mirrors broader trends in the industry, such as Visa and Baanx’s launch of USDC stablecoin payment cards, which aim to bridge traditional finance with crypto innovations.
The Quest for Broader Adoption
While Web2.5 platforms are gaining traction, the broader challenge remains: how to onboard the next wave of crypto users. Pampati acknowledges this hurdle, pointing out that many in the industry are still grappling with the question of what will act as the next catalyst for mass adoption.
“I think the biggest challenge is trying to predict the next catalyst that pulls forward the next million, 10 million users into crypto,” he remarked. This challenge is compounded by a tendency among founders to recycle familiar concepts, such as memecoins and NFTs, rather than venturing into uncharted territories. As explored in our recent coverage of Mesh adding Apple Pay to let shoppers spend crypto, innovative payment solutions are emerging as potential drivers for wider adoption.
Innovation, Pampati suggests, is the key. Encouraging founders to break away from the past and look towards the future could be what sets the stage for the next big leap in crypto adoption. Aptos is keen to motivate these pioneers to “see through the corners” and avoid merely rehashing what’s been created before.
Navigating the Future of Crypto
As the crypto world continues to evolve, the emergence of Web2.5 platforms on Aptos signals a potential shift in how digital platforms might balance user experience with decentralization. However, the road ahead isn’t without its challenges. The quest for the next big innovation that will sweep millions into the crypto fold remains open-ended, raising questions about the sustainability of current trends.
Pampati’s insights reflect a broader industry sentiment: while the potential for growth is enormous, realizing it will require new thinking and a willingness to embrace change. As Aptos and its Web2.5 counterparts continue to chart their course, the crypto world watches with bated breath, eager to see where this hybrid approach will lead in the months and years to come.
In the ever-shifting sands of cryptocurrency, where today’s innovation is tomorrow’s norm, Aptos’ Web2.5 venture could very well be a harbinger of things to come. But whether it will be the catalyst that propels the next wave of users remains an open question—one that only time and continued innovation can answer.
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This article is based on: Aptos exec sees Web 2.5 platforms earning ‘tons’ of revenue
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Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
