As a Web3 person, I'm constantly looking for the easiest way to use my crypto for day-to-day activities. I live in Nigeria, so there are very few things you can pay for in crypto. Plus, government regulations keep changing. It's frustrating.
Then, I discovered Egoblox. With Egoblox, I can use my crypto to pay for data, airtime or electricity with ease via Telegram, and I'll tell you everything you need to know about it.
Egoblox is a cryptocurrency payment gateway that enables seamless transactions via a Telegram mini-app. Integrating with the Telegram bot allows users to conduct transactions without switching between wallets or applications.
Built on Base, Egoblox currently supports transactions exclusively on the Base network. However, it uniquely accommodates Telegram users' names, allowing for a streamlined experience. When a user imports a wallet that supports Base or creates a new one, it becomes the wallet linked to their Telegram username. Please note that Egoblox does not currently support TON transactions.
Egoblox features an intuitive and user-friendly interface, which is perfect for newcomers, and offers a simple way to convert crypto to cash and vice versa—inspired by the need to make blockchain technology more accessible, especially in regions like Nigeria, where ISP bans and VPN restrictions limit access to crypto applications.
Egoblox aims to expand its utility services globally. Plans include integrating more tokens and cross-chain capabilities, building crypto off-ramping options, and further development. The platform is built with Node.js, TypeScript, and utilizes the Telegram API for bot functionality.
Availability in areas restricted to crypto access by the government.
Easy utility payment options with crypto.
Base name and Telegram username integration.
Gasless transactions: Made possible with Paymaster integration, an integration that covers transaction fees on users' behalf.
I found Egoblox quite easy to use. On Telegram, search for the term "egoblox_bot" and you would see a welcome message like this. Below the message, a menu pops up that allows you select what you want to do easily.
If you have a wallet, you can easily import your wallet as far as you have its seed phrase/private key. The entire wallet creation process took about 5 seconds.
When you're done creating/importing your wallet, you can check your balance, reset to import another wallet, or create a fresh one. I also checked the balance of my new wallet and it worked.
I like how easy the wallet is to use. But I found some of the instructions unclear. For example, the create or import wallet should come first before the main menu, because nothing can be done without a wallet. Then, it is also unclear what a standard wallet is. Is it one that supports Base? Can users connect their hardware wallets?
There should also be an explanation that the wallet address generated is on Base, so new users don't send non-Base assets and lose their funds. As at the time of writing this review, the buy crypto, data, and buy electricity options are not yet available.
Fast transaction speed: Transactions happen within 5-15 seconds.
Familiar interface: The bot leverages the Telegram mini app feature, so users do not have to get used to a new interface.
No VPN required: Egoblox works perfectly without a VPN. As far as you can use Telegram, you can definitely use this app without stress.
Unclear User Instructions: There's no guide on using the wallet, and some instructions are unclear. For example, the 'Fund wallet' button could be renamed 'Receive,' so users won't be confused about how to receive tokens.
Limited Transaction Support: Only Base transactions are supported. Adding other networks, especially TON, could help a wider range of users.
Language Limitations: The platform is only available in English. Adding support for other languages, mainly native Nigerian languages, could be a significant advantage.
Lack of Support Options: Support options, such as FAQs, live chat, or email support, would improve user satisfaction and resolve issues efficiently.
Egoblox makes it easy for everyone to use crypto. Many newbies are getting familiar with Telegram already, so an easy-to-use product like this would help them get onboarded to crypto even faster.
Also, I would love to see educational resources like tutorials and demos, as these would help newbies understand its functionalities better. I found only one demo video from the product's Github repo. Overall, Egoblox is a great product, and I'd surely use it again!
If I lose my Telegram account, do I lose my Egoblox wallet?
No, you don't. Even if you create a wallet with Egoblox, you won't lose your wallet. You can click on “Export Wallet” to obtain your private key. But you must never share it with anyone else.
Do I need a VPN to use Egoblox?
No, you don't need a VPN to access Egoblox's features.
Can I use Egoblox on my phone?
Yes. You can do everything from the Telegram app on your phone, eliminating the need for third-party apps.
