After a long two-year wait, Android users can finally use the popular Breadwallet Bitcoin wallet application. Today, the team behind the wallet released its Android version through the Google Play Store and also made the source code available via GitHub repositories.
Breadwallet's Journey to Android
Breadwallet first debuted on iOS through the App Store in June 2014. Since then, it has gained a strong reputation as a secure Bitcoin wallet that connects directly to the network without relying on central servers. This allows users to manage their funds independently, and the company reports that thousands of people have "started their Bitcoin journey with Breadwallet and have remained loyal users ever since."
Since the iOS release, many Android users have been asking when the app would be available on their operating system. The company is well aware that Android users outnumber iOS users significantly, and most businesses aim to maximize success by supporting both platforms. However, Breadwallet had previously focused exclusively on iOS for security reasons. Now, the team believes the time is right for Android.
Security First: From iOS to Android
Aaron Voisine, founder and CEO of Breadwallet, explained to Bitcoin.com:
"We launched Breadwallet on iOS back in 2014 because it was the most secure popular computing platform out there. With the new security enhancements introduced in Marshmallow, we're excited now to be able to bring the same simple user experience and rigorous level of security to Android users."
The team notes that Apple can be "draconian" when it comes to adding apps to iOS. Yet, Apple enforces digital signatures before distribution, checks for hidden viruses and malware, and subjects every app to rigorous review. Moreover, Apple gives developers access to iPhone's hardware-encrypted storage, enabling the creation of highly secure applications. Data remains safe on a dedicated chip on the device, with no doors for hackers to access.
By leveraging Apple's standards, Breadwallet has maintained that "no customer funds have been stolen" since its inception. The team adds: "Hardware-level encryption was our bare minimum for security, and was something Apple ensured, and Android didn't — until now."
Download Now: Android 6.0+ Only
The app will only run on hardware-level protected phones. Users on Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or higher can download it from the Play Store today. The team states: "We're the security experts, so you don't have to be, and we're confident every Breadwallet is secure enough to even store a million dollars or more. If you have a device running Android 6.0 or higher, look us up in the Play Store. We'll be waiting!"