Bryan Johnson, the billionaire founder of neurotech company Kernel and longevity research firm OS Fund, is making his first foray into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Johnson has collaborated with leading Solana protocol DRiP and artist Degen Poet to airdrop an exclusive NFT collection to DRiP holders.
Announced via social media platform X on January 30th, the Blueprint NFT collection features three tiers of collectibles – Common, Rare, and Legendary. DRiP account holders can claim a random Blueprint NFT from the airdrop for free. The airdrop is processed in real-time with DRiP covering gas fees.
In his post, Johnson spoke enthusiastically about the partnership while noting the synergies between crypto and the longevity field. He thanked the crypto community for the warm welcome.
DRiP CEO Vibhu Norby also welcomed Johnson, stating that the artwork is now immortalized on the Solana blockchain via DRiP. Norby later updated that around 22,000 Bryan Johnson NFT collectibles had been claimed so far at an average rate of 50 per minute.
Airdrops allow crypto projects to distribute free tokens or NFT rewards to users for community-building and awareness purposes. The celebrity association from backers like Bryan Johnson helps shine a spotlight on newer protocols like DRiP.
While the monetary value of airdropped assets can vary, participation is often incentivized by the potential to either use or sell the tokens on secondary markets. This presents an easy way for new users to interact with and contribute to emerging Web3 ecosystems.
Johnson’s high-profile backing indicates widening mainstream interest in what crypto has to offer. As an early tech pioneer looking to extend human lifespan dramatically, his support helps validate the space to outside observers. The innovative airdrop also showcases Solana’s capabilities and DRiP’s efforts to push adoption.
