Firefly.eth: The open-source, open-hardware device for Ethereum

Milestone Update

Introduction

Firefly is an open-source, crypto-native hardware device designed to make Ethereum tools—such as wallets, smart contract frameworks, and dApp development platforms—more accessible and versatile. Many existing hardware solutions are costly, limited in functionality, or unsuitable for experimentation. Firefly addresses this by offering a secure, multi-functional device at an affordable production cost of $7–9 per unit, with ongoing efforts to bring it down to $5 and ultimately make it free for end users.

In addition to securely storing cryptocurrencies, Firefly functions as a hardware wallet, a two-factor authentication (2FA) key, and supports unique features like gaming capabilities. The project’s current focus is the Firefly DevKit, a tool designed for developers to explore and build with Ethereum-based applications. With the DevKit, developers can securely test dApps, integrate blockchain functions with hardware, and prototype new use cases for decentralized technologies.

Firefly aims to distribute the DevKit widely within the Ethereum community, fostering a robust ecosystem of developers who can leverage its unique features to push advancements in blockchain innovation.

Open Source and Developer Ecosystem

Firefly embodies an open-source ethos, with both its software and hardware available under an MIT license. This open framework allows developers and projects to create custom firmware—specialized software that runs directly on the device’s hardware—to extend its capabilities beyond its default features. Developers can design firmware for advanced wallet functionality, such as multi-signature support or integration with decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols. It can also be used to implement support for specific Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs), create unique gaming or NFT experiences, or enable entirely new use cases tailored to their projects.

To further engage the Ethereum development community, Firefly plans to launch a Developer Bounty Program. This initiative will provide resources and incentives for developers to contribute to Firefly’s core software or create third-party firmware. For updates and more information about the bounty program, interested developers are encouraged to follow Firefly profile on X for updates. Developers can also access the Firefly repository and collaborate on the Firefly forum to unlock innovative applications and expand the ecosystem.

Use Cases and Features

The Firefly team is actively developing firmware for a variety of impactful use cases:

• Universal 2FA Security Key (FIDO U2F): A high-priority feature aimed at enhancing security through seamless two-factor authentication. However, full functionality depends on OS (Operating System) support for BLE FIDO, a security standard that enables secure wireless authentication using Bluetooth. While most of the necessary code is ready, macOS does not yet support BLE-based security devices, limiting compatibility on Apple systems.

• Ethereum Hardware Wallet: Supporting multiple private keys per device with native account abstraction capabilities.

• Gaming Applications: Unlocking creative possibilities for blockchain-based gaming projects, such as space invaders.

By enabling these features, Firefly seeks to push the boundaries of Ethereum hardware’s adaptability and utility.

Affordability and Accessibility

An essential aspect of Firefly’s mission is affordability. While the current production cost of the Firefly DevKit is approximately $7–9 USD per unit, the team is actively working to bring the cost down to $5 USD. Key strategies include:

• Transitioning from 3D-printed cases to injection molding, which could reduce costs by around $2 per unit.

• Ordering components in larger quantities to achieve economies of scale.

These efforts ensure Firefly remains not only innovative but also accessible to a broad range of users and developers worldwide.

Distribution of Firefly Devkits at Devcon

At Devcon Bangkok, supported by ENS Public Goods, the Firefly team distributed over 650 DevKits to developers and users. This initiative provided participants with an opportunity to explore Firefly hardware firsthand, fostering direct engagement and feedback from the Ethereum developer community.

The event showcased the DevKit’s potential for Ethereum-compatible applications and encouraged collaboration among developers. Ricmoo.eth, co-founder of Firefly, delivered the talk "Firefly - Build Your Own Hardware Wallet", where he detailed the development process, provisioning methods, and the team’s strategies for achieving the $5 production cost target.

ENS DAO x Firefly

The Public Goods Working Group awarded Firefly a $50k USDC grant through its Large Grants initiative to support the production and distribution of 2,000 DevKits. This funding enabled the Firefly team to provide hands-on experiences for developers, such as those at Devcon Bangkok, and reinforced Firefly’s mission of democratizing Ethereum hardware.

The grant has been pivotal in advancing Firefly’s goals, with structured allocations ensuring the production of additional units for future distribution. These efforts aim to achieve the project’s affordability target and further expand the developer ecosystem, aligning with ENS DAO’s commitment to fostering impactful public goods in Ethereum.

About ENS DAO Large Grants

The Large Grants initiative from the Public Goods Working Group funds essential Ethereum and Web3 public goods projects, providing up to 50k USDC for initiatives that demonstrate strong utility and impact.

To learn more, visit the ENS DAO Forum and follow ENS DAO for notifications about the next Large Grants opportunity.

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Note: Grants are paid out in tranches. The original distribution date was Q3 2024, and subsequent fund distributions have been made since, following the completion of milestones.