Cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has introduced a new self-custody Web3 wallet featuring passkey authentication and gas fee subsidies. The wallet, launched on August 14, 2025, aims to simplify user access to decentralized finance (DeFi) and onchain assets, joining a growing trend of major platforms adopting passkey technology as an alternative to traditional passwords.
The Gemini Wallet implements passkey authentication and biometric security, replacing traditional recovery phrases with biometric authentication or device PINs. The system eliminates seed phrases while maintaining security standards for self-custody wallets, following similar implementations by Microsoft and Meta in their respective platforms.
A key feature of the wallet is its gas fee coverage for transactions, enabling users to perform swaps and interact with DeFi protocols without initial network fees. The wallet supports major blockchains including Arbitrum and Polygon, integrating with an Onchain Dashboard for cross-chain swaps, portfolio management, and yield generation.
Gemini has established strategic partnerships to enhance wallet functionality. Blockaid provides end-to-end onchain security, while WalletConnect enables connection between the wallet and decentralized apps. Bungee facilitates cross-chain swaps through its $20 billion liquidity marketplace, and Morpho enables instant rewards through curated vaults on Arbitrum.
The wallet’s onboarding process requires no passwords, seed phrases, or personal information, setting it apart from traditional exchange accounts requiring KYC verification. The approach matches broader industry efforts to strengthen Web3 payment security through biometric authentication. Currently, the platform operates as a web-based service without a standalone mobile app or browser extension, using browser pop-ups for navigation.
Additional features include free Ethereum Name Service (ENS) subdomains for simplified wallet address management. The wallet operates under its own Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy, separate from the Gemini Exchange, with users maintaining full control of their private keys.
“We aim to expand onchain finance’s role in mainstream markets,” said Gemini in an official statement, “by addressing adoption barriers through passkey authentication and streamlined DeFi access.” The development comes as the global biometric authentication market continues to expand, with projections showing significant growth through 2031.
The company notes that third-party services and protocols integrated with the wallet are used at users’ own risk, with no guarantees on yields or returns.
Sources: AInvest, Gemini Blog, Blockworks, Bitcoin.com News, MooLoo
