NBA Top Shot users can now purchase NFTs through the Apple or Android apps

by James · February 17, 2023

Dapper Labs appears to be adopting a mobile-first approach in the Web3 space by pushing apps for NFT purchases. They are in talks with Apple and Google to find a way forward related to the hefty taxes on the platforms.

The officially licensed basketball NFT platform NBA Top Shot has tasted great success with non-fungible tokens (NFT) generating more than $1 billion in sales to date. As a result, it wants to expand the reach of its NFT platform to users worldwide.

NBA Top shot will now be available on smartphone platforms such as Apple iOS and Android. These native platform apps will provide a convenient and more agile way to access and purchase digital collectibles on the go. This is also the first step for Dapper Labs – creator of NBA Top Shot – to venture into a mobile-first Web3 company.

Speaking to the Decrypt publication, Dapper Labs Senior VP of Sports Partnerships Jennifer van Dijk said:

“The NBA Top Shot app will truly be the start of our transition to being a mobile-first company.” She added that the move will allow Dapper to “lead the way in what mobile looks like in Web3, and continue our path of wanting to bring everyone to Web3.”

Dapper Labs is trying to test the waters by launching a limited version of the app. Thus, users will be able to view their own collection of NBA Top Shot NFTs. They will also be able to see platform activity, receive crash alerts, as well as purchase the starter pack with NFT moments. Dapper Labs also said it plans to add more features in the future.

Web3 goes mobile

Over the past two years, Web3 startups and NFT marketplaces have seen tremendous growth. However, some of the popular Web3 applications have been a bit hesitant to go mobile due to Apple and Google expecting a big cut from sales.

The hefty 30% Apple fee makes the primary sale of NFTs more expensive for mobile users. It’s a major hurdle that Web3 startups have struggled with in recent months.

Van Dijk said Dapper Labs has kept this in mind while expanding the Top Shot app to the mobile platform. She added that along with sports league partners, they are also working with Apple and Google to work on the best way forward. Thus, the purchase of the NBA Top Shot starter pack through mobile apps will include any fees. Van Dijk noted:

“When we present a price, it will include everything that will be charged or managed by us on the back end, and the consumer will have that price. We are also committed to keeping prices affordable for fans and making them accessible.”

She also pointed to the 100,000 Top Shot starter packs designed around LeBron James. These starter packs are sold via the web interface at a price of 49 pcs. “We are going to continue in that trend also on the starter packs,” van Dijk added. “Maybe not $9, exactly, but affordable and affordable.”