That is good to hear. The Blockchain is the next big thing and the future. Banks are creating their own coins based on Blockchain technology (like Citicoin), Ethereum will be a platform for decentralized applications, and so on. The world is about to change.
I think Maidsafe has a bigger shot at ending up as the be-all-end-all of decentralized application. Maidsafe aims at potentially replacing the entire internet. It's an entirely new decentralized internet. It's pretty mindblowing if you think about it. Ethereum could remain as something niche that just deals with complex smart contracts that for some reason Bitcoin can't do.
I've also heard about Maidsafe (and have some coins too) but I think that Maidsafe and Ethereum are the same thing? What is the difference? I heard that apps can be developed on the SAFE network too. I don't know. I'm very confused
There's a big difference. It's completely 2 different systems. You can find a lot of information on the safe forums. Namely:
Ethereum: uses a blockchain (just like Bitcoin) where people can do transactions. It added an extra feature where you can run scripts (little programs) on that same blockchain. They will provide apps for everyone to connect to the scripts and blockchain. Will be great for something like a decentralized crowdfunder.
Counterparty: uses the Bitcoin blockchain. Can be used to create new coins. Even coins that pay "dividends".
Maidsafe: uses no blockchain but creates consensus about who owns Safecoin without a timestamp. It also provides storage in the network for files and data like websites etc. People will be payed in Safecoin to provide resources. Just like Ethereum it will use apps. Think of the apps like in your Chrome-browser.
