Increased Capacity for OP_RETURN Transactions on Bitcoin Core Following Contentious Discussion!
In a move that has divided the Bitcoin community, a controversial Bitcoin Core Pull-Request #32406 has been merged, aiming to remove the default limit for OP_RETURN. This decision was met with rejoice by some well-known Bitcoiner, Wicked, but not without opposition.
The change does not force node operators to adopt the new limit, but simply alters the default setting. Node operators who prefer to set a fixed size limit for OP_RETURN data can still do so through a simple configuration.
Gloria Zhao, a Bitcoin Core maintainer, was the driving force behind the merge of the pull request. Zhao's primary goal was to prevent users from resorting to harmful methods of storing data on the blockchain due to the current OP_RETURN rules being too restrictive.
The OP_RETURN mechanism allows embedding small data amounts in Bitcoin transactions without permanently burdening the UTXO database. However, the previous default limit of 80 bytes, in place since 2014, has been removed. Now, the allowable data size will only be based on the general standard rules for valid transactions as defined by Bitcoin Core.
The removal of the OP_RETURN limit has been met with criticism from some quarters. Opponents argue that removing a spam filter without a guarantee is wishful thinking. Some have labelled the change as gaslighting from the start and a bitter pill to swallow. These critics have taken to social media platforms, particularly X, to voice their displeasure.
Jameson Lopp, another prominent Bitcoin developer, considered the change as inevitable and moved on to other important matters. René, a founding member of Blocktrainer and the Chief Operating Officer, who occasionally remains editorially active, also supports the change.
The debate about the sensible handling of "data in money" is not over yet. As the Bitcoin community continues to evolve, so too will the discussions and decisions that shape its future.
Read also:
- Musk threatens Apple with litigation amidst increasing conflict surrounding Altman's OpenAI endeavor
- E-mobility continues its progress after a decade since the scandal, staying on course
- The Commission deems the assistance program to be in agreement with the domestic market regulations.
- Innovative Garments and Accessories Producing Energy: Exploring Unconventional Sources for Renewable Power
