Solana Co-Founder Anatoly Yakovenko Targets Mobile App Store Duopoly with Disruptive Vision

Anatoly Yakovenko, co-founder of the high-performance blockchain Solana, has publicly declared his intent to "hack the duopoly," referring to the dominant control exerted by Apple and Google over the mobile app store ecosystem. In a recent tweet, Yakovenko, known as "toly 🇺🇸" on social media, stated, "> the duopoly dad, gotta hack the duopoly," signaling an escalated challenge to the established mobile distribution model. This statement underscores Solana's strategic push into the mobile sector, aiming to provide a decentralized alternative for developers and users.

Yakovenko has consistently criticized the substantial 30% commission that Apple and Google levy on app sales and in-app purchases. He argues that this fee stifles innovation and limits the number of new applications, particularly within the lucrative mobile gaming industry, which generates over $100 billion annually. "The duopoly takes 30% of that just to display a top 10 list. That means 30% fewer games get made," Yakovenko previously stated, highlighting the economic impact on developers.

Solana's efforts to disrupt this duopoly are primarily channeled through Solana Mobile, a subsidiary dedicated to integrating blockchain technology with mobile devices. The company launched its first smartphone, Saga, in 2023, featuring a dedicated Solana Dapp Store. This store offers a curated selection of decentralized applications, aiming to bypass traditional app store fees and restrictions.

Following the initial success of the Saga phone, Solana Mobile announced its second device, "Chapter 2," which garnered over 100,000 pre-orders, securing the necessary production volume. This initiative demonstrates Solana's commitment to building a viable alternative in the mobile market, leveraging its blockchain's efficiency for direct transactions and app distribution. Solana Labs has reportedly processed over $20 million in USDC payments without incurring the typical high fees, showcasing the practical benefits of its approach.

The vision extends beyond just fee reduction; Yakovenko aims to foster a more open and equitable mobile app landscape. By providing an infrastructure where developers can directly connect with consumers and retain a larger share of their earnings, Solana seeks to unlock new possibilities for innovation and competition in a market long dominated by two tech giants.