Limit on Bitcoin Core's OP_RETURN feature has been increased following a contentious discussion!
In a move that has divided opinions within the Bitcoin community, the Bitcoin Core developers have successfully incorporated Pull Request #32406 into their code. This controversial decision aims to abolish the default limit for OP_RETURN, a mechanism that allows the embedding of small amounts of data in transactions without permanently burdening the UTXO database.
Previously, the OP_RETURN limit was set at 80 bytes. However, a proposal was submitted to remove this restriction, and after an initial failure, an alternative pull request has been successful. With the merge of PR #32406, the previous default limit for OP_RETURN data in Bitcoin Core has been removed.
The change is expected to prevent users from resorting to harmful methods of storing data on the blockchain due to the previous OP_RETURN rules being too restrictive. Node operators can still set a fixed size limit for OP_RETURN data through configuration, but the new default does not force them to do so.
Gloria Zhao, a Bitcoin Core maintainer, emphasized that the change strengthens the decentralized, public market for block space and prevents centralization pressure. René, a founding member of the Blocktrainer team, and Jonas Schnelli, the person who submitted Bitcoin Core Pull Request #32406 and was significantly involved in its realization, have also voiced their support for the decision.
However, not everyone in the Bitcoin community is in agreement. Some have criticized the decision as wishful thinking, claiming it could lead to an increase in spam transactions. One opponent even called the decision gaslighting and expressed disappointment. These criticisms have been particularly vocal on platform X, with many voicing their displeasure on social media.
Jameson Lopp, another prominent Bitcoin developer, described the change as inevitable and moved on to more important things. Bitcoiner 'Wicked' rejoiced at the decision, stating that the Core team did not bow to the will of the technically uneducated, loud minority.
The debate about the sensible handling of 'data in money' is far from over. As the Bitcoin network continues to evolve, so too will the discussions surrounding its use and potential applications. Only time will tell how the removal of the OP_RETURN limit will impact the Bitcoin ecosystem.
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