XIP-46: Multi-Wallet Identity

jha · April 10, 2024, 7:58pm

xmtp/XIPs/blob/main/XIPs/xip-46-multi-wallet-identity.md

---
xip: 46
title: Multi-Wallet Identity
description: Defines a new identity model for XMTP, where users are represented in the protocol by an Inbox ID rather than a wallet address.
author: Richard Hua (@richardhuaaa), Nicholas Molnar (@neekolas), Tong Wang (@37ng), Andrew Plaza (@insipx), Cameron Voell (@cameronvoell)
status: Review
type: Standards
category: Interface
created: 2024-04-10
---

## Abstract

This XIP defines a new identity model for XMTP, where users are represented in the protocol by an Inbox ID rather than a wallet address. Additionally, it defines mechanisms for associating multiple addressable identities, including wallets, to this new identity.

## Motivation

Within the Ethereum ecosystem, security concerns have led to the widespread use of burner wallets, while UX abstractions have led to the creation of non-portable, embedded wallets inside apps. Increasingly, users are likely to possess multiple wallets and perhaps even identities outside of an EVM chain.

In this world, the user would ideally be contactable via any identity they possess and be able to authenticate to the same inbox via any of these identities to apps on the XMTP network.

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Scot_Boyd · April 11, 2024, 4:57pm

Hi!

The last line refers to InboxUpdate instead of IdentityUpdate, which I think is a typo.

franziskus · May 14, 2024, 10:41am

We collected a number of questions and answers in a separate document. They give some additional clarification. XIP-46 - Google Docs

After the recent change that installation keys can no longer add more associated addresses the basic design looks good.

The security heavily relies on the user to check the signed texts though. That’s why I think that some additional description would be good on how the text is displayed and common attacks like homographic attacks are prevented.