In the rapidly evolving world of decentralized applications (dApps), user experience and security are paramount. With the latest update, AppKit now supports Smart Accounts, a next-generation account abstraction solution that enhances both security and convenience for users across games, social platforms, DeFi protocols, and NFT marketplaces.
This innovation eliminates many of the traditional pain points associated with blockchain wallets—such as seed phrase management and complex onboarding—by replacing standard Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs) with programmable smart contracts compliant with the ERC-4337 standard. The result? A seamless, intuitive, and secure way to interact with Web3.
👉 Discover how Smart Accounts can transform your dApp experience today.
What Are Smart Accounts?
A Smart Account is a smart contract-based wallet that functions as a user’s primary identity on the blockchain. Unlike traditional wallets that rely on private keys and seed phrases, Smart Accounts use designated signers—such as passkeys or social logins—to authenticate transactions.
Built on the ERC-4337 standard, these accounts enable advanced features like multi-signature approvals, automated payments, and delegated transactions—all without requiring users to manage complex cryptographic keys.
Because they operate as smart contracts, Smart Accounts unlock a new level of flexibility and functionality previously unavailable to regular EOAs.
Key Use Cases for Smart Accounts
Smart Accounts are designed to solve real-world challenges in Web3 adoption. Here's how they're being used:
- Instant Onboarding: New users can jump into games, social dApps, or marketplaces without needing to download a wallet or understand blockchain jargon.
- Reduced Drop-off in DeFi & NFT Platforms: By simplifying login and transaction processes, Smart Accounts help retain users during critical onboarding stages.
- Seamless Cross-Chain Interactions: With consistent addresses across networks, users enjoy smoother experiences when switching between chains.
These improvements make Smart Accounts ideal for developers aiming to onboard mainstream audiences into decentralized ecosystems.
How Smart Account Deployment Works
Smart Accounts are automatically deployed during a user’s first transaction. Until that moment, the system displays a counterfactual address—a precalculated address that represents where the account will exist once deployed.
Even before deployment, the account can sign messages using 6492 signatures, ensuring full functionality from the very beginning. This means users can interact with dApps securely right away, without waiting for contract deployment.
Once the first transaction is initiated, the Smart Account is deployed on-chain, and all subsequent interactions occur through the smart contract interface.
Supported Networks
Smart Accounts are available across multiple EVM-compatible blockchains. Developers and users can leverage this technology on popular networks including Ethereum, Polygon, Optimism, Arbitrum, and more.
For the most up-to-date list of supported chains, refer to official infrastructure documentation.
👉 See how cross-chain compatibility boosts your Web3 strategy.
Who Can Use Smart Accounts?
Currently, Smart Accounts are available exclusively to embedded wallet users who log in via email or social authentication methods (e.g., Google, Apple). This ensures a frictionless experience for non-technical users while maintaining self-custody principles.
Existing AppKit Universal Wallet users can upgrade their EOA-based wallet to a Smart Account at any time. After upgrading, they retain access to their original EOA and continue to fully control their assets.
New users receive a Smart Account by default upon first login—no setup required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Smart Account?
A Smart Account replaces traditional Externally Owned Accounts (EOAs) with a smart contract wallet based on the ERC-4337 standard. It removes the need for seed phrases and private keys, instead relying on secure signers like passkeys or social logins. This enables advanced features such as multi-sig control and automated workflows.
What can I do with a Smart Account?
Smart Accounts support any functionality that can be programmed into a smart contract. Key capabilities include:
- Automated Transactions: Schedule recurring payments or conditional transfers.
- Multi-Signature Authorization: Require multiple approvals for high-value transactions.
- Delegated Transactions: Allow trusted parties to act on your behalf under predefined rules.
- Enhanced Security Features: Implement time locks, spending limits, or recovery mechanisms.
- Interoperability: Seamlessly interact with dApps and DeFi protocols across supported chains.
- Custom Logic: Define personalized transaction rules tailored to individual or business needs.
How do I get a Smart Account?
Existing AppKit users can choose to upgrade their current Universal Wallet to a Smart Account. Once upgraded, you maintain access to your original EOA and full self-custody.
New users automatically receive a Smart Account upon their first login—no extra steps needed.
Does it cost anything to activate a Smart Account?
Yes, there is a small activation fee associated with deploying the Smart Account contract on-chain. This cost is bundled into your first transaction and covers network gas fees for deployment.
After activation, normal transaction fees apply—just like any other smart contract interaction.
Can I export my Smart Account?
No, you cannot export a Smart Account directly. However, your underlying EOA—which owns the Smart Account—remains fully exportable at any time. Since Smart Accounts don’t use seed phrases, recovery relies on access to your original sign-in method (email/social login) or backup signers.
Your EOA always retains ownership and control over the Smart Account.
Can I withdraw all my funds from my Smart Account?
Yes. You have complete control over your assets. At any time, you can initiate withdrawals and transfer all funds out of your Smart Account to another wallet or address of your choice.
What are account names in Smart Accounts?
Blockchain addresses (e.g., 0x...) are long and difficult to remember. To improve usability, AppKit allows you to assign a human-readable account name using ENS Resolvers.
These names follow the format: yourname.reown.id, making it easy to share your address publicly without exposing complex strings.
For example:
- Send USDC on Polygon to:
alice.reown.id - Receive ETH on Optimism at:
alice.reown.id
The same name works across all supported networks thanks to Pimlico’s cross-chain infrastructure.
What can I do with my account name?
Your .reown.id account name serves as a universal alias for your Smart Account. You can:
- Share it publicly for receiving tokens
- Use it across multiple EVM chains without changing addresses
- Improve user experience in dApps that support name resolution
This simplifies peer-to-peer transactions and enhances brandability for creators and businesses in Web3.
Core Keywords: Smart Accounts, ERC-4337, account abstraction, embedded wallets, self-custody, Web3 onboarding, decentralized identity, programmable wallets
👉 Start building smarter Web3 experiences with next-gen account solutions.