NEAR to transform into Blockchain Operating System NEAR to transform into Blockchain Operating System
The announcement marks a significant move towards NEAR's vision of Web3, a move towards a common layer blockchain.
2 min read
Updated: Mar. 2, 2023 at 9:51 pm UTC
Cover art/illustration via CryptoSlate. Image includes combined content which may include AI-generated content.
NEAR, a blockchain platform that aims to simplify and democratize access to decentralized applications, announced at the ETHDenver conference and hackathon on March 2 that it is transforming into the Blockchain Operating System (BOS).
The move marks a significant milestone in the development of Web3, as NEAR becomes the first blockchain to introduce a common layer for browsing and discovering open web experiences, which is compatible with all blockchains.
Bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3
The internet has evolved from its Web1 iteration, which was static and informational, to Web2, which is dynamic and interactive, but also centralized and controlled by a few tech giants.
Web3, the next evolution of the internet, aims to be decentralized, user-owned, and powered by blockchain technology. However, Web3 has faced adoption challenges due to its fragmentation, as each blockchain network is a silo, making it challenging for users and developers to navigate.
The BOS aims to bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3 by offering a common layer for browsing and discovering open web experiences. It will enable users to have an experience similar to using a single app, as they flow between experiences built by different developers or on different chains. Developers, on the other hand, will enjoy the full composability of frontends, improving their ability to build and launch apps.
Alpha.near.org – A Gateway to the BOS
NEAR has launched alpha.near.org, the first preview of a gateway for developers to build on the Blockchain Operating System. Alpha.near.org is a composable, multichain frontend for developers, with over 1800 components already live. These components will allow developers to improve user experiences as well as Web3 accessibility.
FastAuth for onboarding
NEAR has also launched FastAuth, a solution for fast onboarding to the BOS via web login. FastAuth improves usability and accessibility for a range of end-users and is easy for developers to manage. It is mobile-friendly, Pass Key enabled, and doesn’t require a crypto wallet to activate.
Author 
Dorian Batycka
Dorian Batycka is a journalist interested in art and technology. He has previously contributed to CoinDesk, Decrypt, Artforum, Artnet News, the Art Newspaper, and many others. He can be found on Twitter and Instagram @temp_projects, where he often memes his way through current financial and art news, scandals, and events.
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NEAR is a decentralized development platform built on top of the NEAR Protocol, which is a public, sharded, developer-friendly blockchain.