Bitlayer is a pioneering Layer-2 scaling solution built on Bitcoin. It merges Bitcoin’s elite security with the programmability and scalability that decentralized finance (DeFi) demands.
Harnesses BitVM — a novel paradigm enabling Turing-complete smart contract functionality on Bitcoin while preserving its core security model.
Designed as a rollup architecture with an integrated trust-minimized bridge, Bitlayer anchors its security to Bitcoin while offering high throughput and low latency.
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Key Features & Milestones
Mainnet V1 (PoS-based) launched in April 2024, offering full EVM compatibility and secure cross-chain functionality. A testnet is available for experimentation.
BitVM Bridge Mainnet is live, enabling trust-minimized asset transfers between Bitcoin and major blockchains.
V2 Whitepaper released describing the scalable computational layer and a preview of the ambitious V3 roadmap.
Architecture Highlights include:
Recursive Bitcoin settlement protocol for secure L2 state anchoring on Bitcoin.
Dual transaction finality:
Soft finality via fast PoS consensus (sub-second).
Hard finality upon settlement on Bitcoin (≈1 week), with fraud challenge mechanisms.
Modular execution engine that supports smart contracts with near-instant responsiveness and seamless integration with EVM-based tools.
Vision: Transform Bitcoin from a store-of-value network into a robust platform for $BTC -centric DeFi (BTCFi), while preserving decentralization.
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Why It Matters
Leverages Bitcoin’s security for advanced DeFi use cases, enabling developers to build complex dApps without compromising on trust or decentralization.
Delivers low-cost, high-speed transactions, plus interoperability across multiple blockchain environments.
Bridges liquidity efficiently via BitVM, connecting Bitcoin to ecosystems like $ETH , Arbitrum, Starknet, and more.
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Wrap-Up Snapshot
Feature Description
Core Technology BitVM-based Layer 2 with smart contract support
Security Model Anchored to Bitcoin with rollup and PoS
Execution EVM-compatible, fast, and modular
Bridge Trust-minimized $BTC bridging
Status Mainnet V1 live; V2 & V3 development underway
