Status (SNT) is a decentralized platform that combines a mobile and desktop operating system with a browser and a messaging system. It is designed to interact with the Ethereum network, providing users with access to Ethereum's decentralized applications (DApps) from a mobile or desktop device. Status is an open-source platform that provides users with the capability to send encrypted messages, make payments, and utilize smart contracts. The platform uses Status Network Tokens (SNT) as its native currency. Status seeks to facilitate the adoption of Ethereum DApps and align the behavior of its network and software with the interests of its users.

Status operates as a light client Ethereum node, providing users with access to all Ethereum DApps from an installed app on their mobile phone or tablet. Users can send encrypted messages and access decentralized applications, including a cryptocurrency wallet. The platform uses Status Network Tokens (SNT) as its native currency. Status also features a users-as-stakeholders network, where the behavior of the network and its software aligns with the interests of a specific user. The platform's security measures include end-to-end encryption, a locally generated cryptographic keypair for user identity, and a non-custodial wallet for storing cryptocurrency.

Status presents a variety of potential use cases. It can be used as a messaging platform, providing users with the capability to send and receive encrypted messages on a peer-to-peer basis. Users can also make payments and utilize smart contracts. Status provides access to over 2,000 DApps, enabling users to interact with these applications directly from the platform. Additionally, Status can be used as a mobile interface for the Ethereum blockchain, facilitating the adoption of Ethereum DApps. The platform also provides users with the capability to browse through Web3, where end-user data and browsing information is not accessed by any third parties.

Status was founded by Carl Bennetts and Jarrad Hope, who had previously worked together for over six years on various projects, including operating a software distribution network. The Status network was released in June 2017. Bennetts and Hope used the profits from their previous ventures to fund the development of Status. The platform was designed to address the issues they observed with how personal data on the internet is bought and sold, and how users are acquired and retained. The circulating supply of Status or SNT is at 3,470,483,788 SNT with no maximum supply available.

Status contributes to decentralized finance (DeFi) by providing a platform that seeks to facilitate peer-to-peer transactions without the need for a centralized authority. It utilizes blockchain technology and smart contracts with the intention of automating these transactions, thereby aiming to reduce dependency on intermediaries. This decentralized approach is designed to provide individuals with a different way to manage their transactions. Status also supports decentralized applications (dApps) that are designed to facilitate various transactional activities. Status users hold the private keys to their tokens or digital assets, which act like passwords, giving them full custody of their digital assets.

Status primarily uses the Solidity programming language for development. Solidity is a statically-typed, contract-oriented language specifically designed for the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which is the runtime environment for smart contracts in Ethereum. It is influenced by C++, Python, and JavaScript, and is designed to target the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). Solidity is used with the intention of writing applications that aim to implement self-enforcing business logic embodied in smart contracts, aiming to leave a record of transactions that strives to be non-repudiable and authoritative. While Solidity is the primary language for DApp development on Status, understanding other programming languages like JavaScript, Python, and Rust may be beneficial in the broader DApp and blockchain development landscape.

Status strives to maintain user data in a secure manner, making it inaccessible to unauthorized entities. Status does not store chats or share data, and all chats and video communications are encrypted. Messages are removed from servers after delivery, and all files are deleted after a period of one month. This approach to privacy is a characteristic of Status. Additionally, Status replaces the need for a phone number with a unique ID, further maintaining user anonymity. This commitment to privacy is a characteristic of Status, which may be of interest to those who are conscious about their privacy.