Embrace Alby Hub - phasing out Alby’s shared wallet
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🐝 Alby Hub, Browser Extension and Account
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At Alby, we are committed to collaboration and innovation within the lightning network ecosystem. Together with users, partners, and contributors, we are working to make bitcoin the native currency of the internet.
Every month, the lightning network becomes more user-friendly. From logging into platforms with the Alby Browser Extension to receiving sats on Stacker News via NWC, and seamlessly interacting with tools like Primal, LNbits, BTCPay, ZeusWallet, Amethyst, and more—each tool contributes uniquely to enriching your experience in this growing ecosystem.
Participation in the network requires a lightning node, which can be either self-hosted or operated by a company or group. Until now, your Alby wallet, including your @getalby.com lightning address, has been powered by a shared node provided by us.
In the beginning of 2024, we shared our vision in "". Since then we launched , your self-custodial wallet accessible from anywhere to integrate with dozens of apps. We’ve also launched - the easiest-to-use mobile app to connect your Alby Hub and use your sats on the go. These steps have been part of our journey toward full self-custody. Now, it's time for the final milestone. It’s time for the beautiful sunset.
If you created an Alby account before March 24, 2024, withdraw your sats until including January 3, 2025. to withdraw any remaining balance from the shared wallet. We’ll provide you with guidance and reminders throughout this transition to ensure a smooth process.
If you don't withdraw your funds by January 4, 2025, your remaining balance will be converted into Fee Credits. These credits will be used to cover fees of one month Alby Cloud subscription and one payment channel making it easy to start your own self-custodial Hub. You are able to transfer your funds to your new Alby Hub and retain access to your sats. Learn more about Fee Credits .
This approach serves as a bridge—easing the transition from legacy wallets while empowering you to maintain an active presence in the lightning network.
Our transition aligns with Proof of Keys Day, a day that underscores the importance of taking full control of your bitcoin.
Why should I proof my keys and use a self-custodial wallet like Alby Hub?
Financial control: Take full control of your funds and transactions, eliminating reliance on third-party custodians.
No limits: Enjoy unrestricted transactions—no caps on size or number when using your own node.
Support decentralization: Strengthen the lightning network’s resilience and censorship resistance by running your node.
Enhanced privacy: Broadcast transactions directly, reducing exposure of your data to third parties.
Gain expertise: Operating a node offers hands-on experience, deepening your understanding of bitcoin's payment system.
We're excited to take this important step with you and ensure you’re fully supported along the way: Join our where we make sure you are off to a good start. Together, we are building a future where payments are seamless, secure, and permissionless.
Be part of this journey - and experience the bitcoin revolution! 🚀
Not at all! Alby accounts remain free and available for everyone. Only the integrated lightning wallet service is being phased out. The good news? You can connect to other lightning wallets like Alby Hub, Umbrel, Start9, or other NWC-enabled wallets. Some of are still enhancing their NWC features, so stay tuned!
Absolutely! Your lightning address will continue working and you can connect it to a wide range of wallets like Alby Hub, Umbrel, Start9, or .
For developers, there are dedicated with very useful APIs to power your own app with lightning payments.
Yes. The Alby Browser Extension also works without the shared wallet. You can keep posting on Nostr without any problem. If you want to send and receive bitcoin, you only need to connect a lightning wallet and there are plenty of good ones. Find them .
Yes! Your podcast feed remains fully functional without restrictions until January 3, 2025. After that, you’ll still receive podcast payments through your Alby account to an Alby Hub (if you set it up) or to any wallet of your choosing, connected to your Alby account.. Your balance will be converted to fee credits, which you can use for other services. Learn more about fee credits .
The easiest option is to transfer them to your own Alby Hub starting on . We have made it particularly easy for you and if you have any questions along the way, just use the internal chat tool to talk to us. Thank you for considering it! 🙏
Yes. The Alby Browser Extension also works without the shared wallet. For instance you can keep posting on Nostr without any problem. If you want to send and receive bitcoin, you only need to connect a lightning wallet and there are plenty of good ones. Find these wallets .
You’ll find an overview of possible wallets .
We want to make it as easy as possible for you. and follow the instructions. You’ll be surprised how easy it is.
Installing Alby Hub on your own server, desktop, Start9, Umbrel, Nodana.io or Casa OS is free. If you prefer more convenience you can choose Alby Cloud where you pay for hosting your Hub with a 30-day money back guarantee. The latest pricing plans and its features are available .