Embrace Alby Hub - sunsetting Alby’s shared wallet

Alby's Journey toward self-custodial Bitcoin Payments

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 "Where Does Alby Fly From Here". Since then we launched Alby Hub, your self-custodial wallet accessible from anywhere to integrate with dozens of apps. We’ve also launched Alby Go - 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.

On January 4, 2025 - one day after the Proof of Keys day - we will stop providing our shared wallet service. We'll focus on Alby Hub, the Alby Extension and Alby Go and make them even better.

What happens to my shared Alby Wallet?

If you created an Alby account before March 24, 2024, withdraw your sats until including January 3, 2025. Spin up your own Alby Hub 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 here.

This approach serves as a bridge—easing the transition from legacy wallets while empowering you to maintain an active presence in the lightning network.

What's next: Embrace Self-Custody with Alby Hub

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 Alby Hub onboarding calls 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 - set up your Alby Hub today and experience the bitcoin revolution! 🚀