Introduction

Introduction

Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency by market cap, is renowned for its security and decentralization. However, it wasn’t designed for complex programmability. Its intentionally limited scripting language supports only simple transactions and basic multi-signature functions. Combined with slow block times, constrained computational power, and limited storage, these features prioritize robustness and security, earning Bitcoin its reputation as “digital gold.”

This unique combination—high economic value with limited programmability—sets Bitcoin apart from other blockchains. BitVM addresses this gap by introducing programmability without compromising Bitcoin’s core strengths. Unlike Ethereum’s Solidity-based smart contracts, BitVM leverages Bitcoin’s existing scripting language and an “optimistic challenge-response” mechanism to enable more complex operations.

By doing so, BitVM could unlock a new era of Bitcoin-native applications, harnessing Bitcoin’s unparalleled trust minimization and security while overcoming its traditional programmability limitations.