Transforming Digital Asset Security: An Interview with Adam Lowe, Founder of Arculus

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the need for secure and user-friendly solutions for managing digital assets has never been greater. Enter @thisisarculus, a groundbreaking device that combines a self-custody hardware wallet, metal payment card, hardware passkey, and even a mirror into one sleek, innovative package.

I had the opportunity to check out Arculus’ booth at #Consensus2024 and ask @DrAdamLowe, Chief Product Officer and Creator of Arculus, some questions about the technological advancements, security measures, and user-centric design that set Arculus apart in the digital asset space.

 BLOCK JOURNAL: The Echo Mirror Web3 payment Arculus card is an impressive amalgamation of a self-custody hardware wallet, metal payment card, hardware passkey, and even a mirror. Can you elaborate on the technological advancements and integration challenges you faced in combining these features into one device?

ADAM: Arculus created the most cryptographically advanced smartcard in the world to support all the functions demonstrated at Consensus, which was an immense technological challenge to implement on a payment chip. Through this technology, Arculus was able to enable Web3 payments, where consumers will be able to use digital currency to pay merchant’s directly at supported point-of-sale terminals or over traditional payment card networks. Arculus further supports Web3 payments by acting as a 3DS2 signer and platform hardware authenticator to keep your digital identity safe through the FIDO2 and passkey standards. Through innovative material engineering and precise design, Arculus integrated mirror functionality without compromising the card’s primary uses to create a versatile, secure, and elegant device that meets diverse user needs.   

BLOCK JOURNAL: With certifications from FIDO Alliance, Microsoft, Mastercard, and Visa, how does Arculus ensure the highest levels of security for users’ digital assets and payments? Can you discuss any specific security protocols or measures that set Arculus apart from other solutions on the market?

ADAM: Arculus utilizes advanced cryptographic algorithms and secure element technology. It employs 3-factor authentication, including biometrics, PIN, and the Arculus card itself, offering superior protection against unauthorized access. As a cryptographic engine, Arculus generates, stores, and manages digital keys, with private keys generated on the card and never leaving it, ensuring all transactions are signed on the card. Arculus utilizes a secure operating system and secure element, like those featured in the US passport.

BLOCK JOURNAL: One of the key aspects of widespread adoption is user experience. How does Arculus balance advanced security features with ease of use to appeal to both tech-savvy users and the general public?

ADAM: Arculus balances advanced security features with ease of use by integrating intuitive, user-friendly interfaces alongside robust security protocols. The card’s sleek, metal form factor makes it user-friendly and more appealing than other market options like dongles, while its seamless interaction with a companion mobile app allows for easy management of digital assets. Additionally, all transactions use the familiar tap-to-authenticate process for both tech-savvy users and the general public.

BLOCK JOURNAL:  How do you envision Arculus impacting the current digital asset protection and payment landscape? What are your long-term goals for Arculus, and can you share any upcoming features or partnerships that might further enhance its capabilities?

ADAM: Arculus has already significantly impacted the digital asset protection and payment landscape by offering a unique combination of advanced security, user-friendly design and versatile functionality. Our long-term goal for Arculus is to set a new standard for secure digital transactions, making secure asset management accessible to a broader audience. Arculus is more than just a cold storage wallet or even a cold storage wallet that can be used to make purchases. It can also transform any payment card into a security token, revolutionizing the payment industry, reducing fraud and protecting consumers. Arculus will be a leader in the burgeoning field of Web3 payments.

BLOCK JOURNAL: The multifunctionality of Arculus suggests a deep understanding of user needs in the digital asset s

pace. What kind of feedback have you received from beta testers or early adopters, and how has that feedback influenced the final design and features of the product?

ADAM: The early feedback on Arculus has been very positive. Users appreciate the seamless integration of advanced security features without compromising user experience. Their feedback led us to refine the card’s interface, improve the tap-to-authenticate process, and enhance the mobile app’s functionality for smoother asset management. No other solution on the market has the sophisticated security and simple interface to meet the needs and expectations of both tech-savvy individuals and the general public.

BLOCK JOURNAL: The digital asset industry is rapidly evolving. What trends do you see shaping the future of digital asset protection and payments, and how is Arculus positioning itself to stay ahead of these trends?

ADAM: The digital asset industry continues to evolve with trends like increased adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi), growing demand for secure self-custody solutions, and the integration of digital assets into everyday transactions. We also see a push towards more seamless user experiences and higher security standards as critical factors shaping the future. Arculus stays ahead of these trends due to CompoSecure’s strong relationships in the banking and financial markets and by continuously innovating its security protocols, expanding support for secure authentication and forming strategic partnerships to enhance functionality and accessibility. Our commitment to combining top-tier security with user-friendly design ensures Arculus remains a leading solution in the ever-evolving digital asset landscape.

BLOCK JOURNAL: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our Block Journal readers about Arculus or your vision for the future of digital asset security and payments?

ADAM: Arculus represents our commitment to continuous innovation while setting new standards in digital asset security and payments. As digital assets become more integrated into daily life, solutions like Arculus will be crucial in ensuring their security and usability, driving the industry forward.