A Bitcoin enthusiast from Canada has conducted a social media experiment called the “Zapathon” in which he sent small amounts of Bitcoin, known as Zaps, to over 600 people around the world. Marketing executive Michael Degroot used the Orange Pill App, a social media platform for Bitcoin users, to connect with and tip others. Zaps are made possible through the layer-2 Lightning Network, which operates on top of Bitcoin. Users can create Lightning wallets to send and receive Zaps, which are typically small amounts of Bitcoin called satoshis. Unlike traditional money remittance methods, Zaps are fast, cheap, and do not require intermediaries. This experiment demonstrated the power and simplicity of the Lightning Network for transferring money globally. The Zap feature has become increasingly popular, particularly on platforms like Nostr, a decentralized social media platform that integrates Bitcoin tipping. Zaps allow users to send instant value to others, promoting a culture of creator compensation and freedom. Despite some challenges, such as Apple delisting one app due to the Bitcoin tipping feature, Nostr and other platforms continue to thrive as a means of connecting Bitcoin users and enabling frictionless microtransactions. Degroot received positive feedback from recipients of his Zaps, who appreciated the gesture and the opportunity to participate in the Bitcoin community. The Zapathon concluded with Degroot encouraging others to try Zapping for themselves. Overall, Zaps serve as a fun and meaningful way to distribute Bitcoin and promote its adoption.
Free Bitcoin on Zaps experiment — but what are Zaps?
