Bitcoin quantum defenses advance, Solana cuts inflation target

Bitcoin development is advancing toward quantum-resistant protections despite ongoing debate over the timeline of quantum threats to the network. StarkWare researcher Avihu Levy demonstrated an experimental quantum-resistant transaction on Bitcoin's mainnet using a scheme called Quantum Safe Bitcoin, which employs hash-based one-time signatures. The approach works but remains impractical for regular use, with each transaction requiring hours and costing between $150 to $200.

On a longer timeframe, Blockstream researchers published a Bitcoin Improvement Proposal on August 27 introducing the SHRINCS signature scheme. The proposal reduces a hash-based post-quantum signature by approximately 13.23 times through compression, though the resulting signature remains at least nine times larger than Bitcoin's current signatures and involves trade-offs. Blockstream Research's Jonas Nick described it as the first concrete proposal for a post-quantum signature scheme designed specifically for Bitcoin, acknowledging it is "not optimal along every axis" but represents "a very good trade-off among the options we have now."

Meanwhile, Solana validators approved a proposal to double the network's annual disinflation rate, reducing total issuance by 18.9 million SOL over six years. The measure, known as SGP-0002 or Double Disinflation, achieved 67% support with a 60.7% participation rate among eligible stake. The change will accelerate Solana's path toward a 1.5% annual inflation target.