Flow

Flow represents a layer one blockchain specifically engineered for consumer applications and the digital assets that drive them. It operates using a Proof of Stake consensus method, featuring a distinct "multi-role" structure that addresses the blockchain trilemma by achieving a balance between scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.

The FLOW ($FLOW) token is the native utility token utilized for:

* Paying transaction fees and data storage costs.
* Facilitating the buying, selling, and trading of assets on the Flow network.
* Staking and delegating to help secure the network.

Flow offers various tools, including:

* Cadence, a smart contract programming language tailored for applications made for consumers.
* Full compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), enabling Ethereum projects to run on Flow.
* Built-in account abstraction and mobile support to facilitate onboarding new users.
* Cross-chain interoperability within the broader web3 ecosystem.
* A developer hub offering extensive documentation and resources.

Flow is uniquely capable of providing large-scale, mainstream experiences at a minimal cost. It is the only blockchain purpose-built for consumer applications, paving the way for innovative use cases that aren't feasible on other networks.

* Consumer-Centric Approach: With over 45 million users engaging with products on Flow, it is a leading platform for consumer-oriented web3 projects.
* Unique Multi-Role Architecture: This design overcomes the blockchain trilemma without sacrificing decentralization.
* Brand Endorsement: Major brands such as the NBA, NFL, Disney, Mattel, and LiveNation/Ticketmaster have adopted Flow.
* Developer-Friendly Environment: Equipped with Cadence, an advanced smart contract language, and full Solidity support via EVM compatibility.
* Proven Success: Hosts popular applications like NBA Top Shot, NFL ALL DAY, and Disney Pinnacle.

The latest enhancement, Crescendo, launched on September 4th, 2024, introduced:

* Complete EVM compatibility for tapping into Ethereum's liquidity and infrastructure.
* Significant performance upgrades, including forward compatibility.
* Improved developer tools and features.

Flow employs a Proof of Stake consensus mechanism alongside its groundbreaking multi-role architecture. This setup divides consensus nodes into specific roles, each contributing uniquely to the network’s functionality. This structure permits high throughput while maintaining security and decentralization. Notable node operators enhancing the network's security and decentralization include Google Cloud, Coinbase, Ubisoft, T-Systems, and Samsung.

Flow's architecture supports features such as account linking, UI abstraction, and protocol-level account abstraction, which improve user experience and security while seamlessly integrating with existing applications and services.

Flow was conceived by Dieter Shirley, who co-authored the ERC-721 standard, known as the first NFT standard, and helped create the industry's first major "killer app," CryptoKitties, in 2017. In 2018, Dieter Shirley, along with Roham Gharegzelou and Mikhael Naayem, co-founded Dapper Labs following CryptoKitties' viral success. Flow was introduced in 2019 through a white paper to spearhead the next phase of blockchain innovation. The Flow network was launched by Dapper Labs in 2020, with NBA Top Shot as its initial major success.

In 2024, to uphold the long-term vision of Flow, the Flow Foundation was established as a decentralized non-profit entity, independent from Dapper Labs.