What is xDai?

xDai Chain is an Ethereum sidechain with 5-second block times, low gas prices, and a native token that’s also called xDai. Developed through a partnership between POA Network and MakerDAO, xDai Chain uses Proof of Autonomy consensus. Proof of Autonomy resembles Proof of Authority, but validators are managed by a DAO instead of a centralized authority. The xDai token is analogous to ETH on Ethereum. It’s a 1:1 representation of MakerDAO’s Dai stablecoin. Users can convert Dai to xDai via POA Network’s TokenBridge, which connects Ethereum and xDai Chain. Established in October 2018, xDai Chain has attracted the attention of the ecosystem, thanks in no small part to Austin Griffith’s Burner Wallet, which provides a quick and easy way to carry and exchange small amounts of spending-crypto using a mobile browser and serves as a low-friction way to onboard new users.