Towns Protocol (TOWNS) is a decentralized protocol for creating next-generation chat spaces. It combines a messenger, NFT community, interest groups, and Web3 monetization in one space.
Each community (called 'Space') lives on smart contracts, is governed in a decentralized manner, and supports:
-access through NFT / tokens
-on-chain reputation
-moderation
-subscription payment
-and even delegation of votes
Simply put, it’s like Discord but with DAO functionality and Web3 at its core.
History and launch
Created by former Houseparty developers (the app bought by Epic Games), highlighting the team’s Web2 heritage.
Received support from a16z crypto, Coinbase Ventures, and Benchmark.
In 2024–2025, the protocol was launched within the EVM ecosystem using Layer 2 and its own Stream network for off-chain messaging.
How does it work?
Towns uses a hybrid architecture:
Smart contracts on Base: managing communities, subscriptions, roles, reputation.
Stream nodes: a decentralized off-chain network for fast and encrypted message transmission (like Discord or Telegram, but Web3).
TOWNS is a native token that provides access to paid features, voting, and staking.
Tokenomics
Circulating supply: 2.11 billion TOWNS
Total supply: 10.13 billion TOWNS
Maximum supply: 15.33 billion TOWNS (hard cap)
Current price: ~$0.043
Market capitalization: ~$89.56 million
FDV (fully diluted valuation): ~$650.83 million
24h volume: $600+ million
Rank: #395
All-time low: $0.035 (05.08.2025)
All-time high: $0.088 (05.08.2025)
Concentration on the platform: 5.32
What does the TOWNS token provide?
TOWNS is a utility + governance token, with key roles:
Payments and access: using premium features in 'Spaces'.
Voting: DAO governance, fund distribution, protocol updates.
Staking: you can delegate tokens to specific communities to:
-gain roles or access,
-to participate in decision-making,
-share rewards within the community.
In-app economy: -monetization of communities and chats.
Who is behind the project?
The founders are the former Houseparty team.
Support from major funds:
-a16z crypto
-Coinbase Ventures
-Benchmark
Uses Base technology (from Coinbase) for deploying smart contracts.
Prospects
Towns Protocol is the Web3 answer to Web2 messengers.
Ability to tokenize governance, paid subscriptions, and reputation in chats.
Spaces are already actively used by DAOs, digital communities, and startups.
Has the potential to become an important player in the SocialFi segment.
Conclusion:
TOWNS is not just a token, but part of a whole ecosystem of decentralized communication and governance. Increased activity, high engagement, and a reliable team make the project appealing to Web3 enthusiasts.
This post is not financial advice. DYOR.
