nChain completes workshop with Bitcoin Unlimited and announces support for bitcoin scaling initiatives

LONDON, July 26, 2017 — On July 24 and 25, blockchain research and development pioneer nChain conducted its previously-announced workshop with members of Bitcoin Unlimited (BU) to jointly support bitcoin scaling initiatives. Meeting in Vancouver, Canada, teams from nChain and BU successfully explored ways in which they can collaborate to achieve larger block sizes and massive on-chain scaling of the bitcoin network.

As a key first step in the developing collaboration, nChain will help improve and deliver a “certified” version of the BU client software. Unlike Bitcoin Core, BU’s client software is designed for larger block sizes and provides a better foundation to support on-chain scaling. nChain will enhance the BU client software into a next-generation “certified” version with rigorous software testing and quality assurance, thorough documentation, and strong software support. This certified version will be especially valuable for Bitcoin miners, exchange operators and merchants. BU will continue providing its own version of the client software, which will include Beta releases and production code, intended more for mass consumer use by small businesses and individual users.

Stefan Matthews, Chief Executive Officer of the nChain Group, explains:

“nChain has confidence in Bitcoin Unlimited and BU’s code. With improvements we can provide using nChain’s expertise, we are also confident that our ‘certified’ version of Bitcoin Unlimited’s client software will address the needs of enterprise users, especially miners. nChain intends to make this certified version available for usage without charge, as part of our contributions to help achieve a faster, more powerful bitcoin network and exponentially higher bitcoin value for everyone’s benefit.”