A new proposal to limit data storage on Bitcoin has sparked a major debate. BIP-110 aims to curb spam like Ordinals, but Blockstream CEO Adam Back strongly opposes it, calling it a divisive “lynch mob attempt.” The proposal is gaining adoption, highlighting a shift in network influence away from Bitcoin Core software.
A contentious proposal to limit blockchain spam is dividing the Bitcoin community. Developer Dathon Ohm supports BIP-110 as an urgent measure to prevent data misuse.
Blockstream CEO Adam Back has sharply criticized the plan. He warned it is an attack on Bitcoin’s credibility and security.
Despite opposition, the proposal is gaining network support. Approximately 7.5% of Bitcoin nodes, primarily using Bitcoin Knots software, have adopted the stricter rules.
Back argues spam is merely an annoyance that fits within block-size limits. He stated pushing a fork without consensus is contentious.
The debate reflects a significant shift in node software distribution. Bitcoin Core’s share of nodes has dropped to 77.2% while Bitcoin Knots has grown to 22.7%.
This shift began after Bitcoin Core removed an 80-byte limit on a key function. That change facilitated storing larger data like images on-chain.
Separately, leaked messages last year suggested developer Luke Dashjr considered a hard fork. Critics warned such a move could enable censorship on the network.
These combined debates question who controls Bitcoin’s development. The community now grapples with maintaining neutrality and decentralization.
