Spam Wars: Bitcoin Core Developers in the Midst of Intense Dispute
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In a joint announcement made on June 6, 2025, 31 Bitcoin Core developers expressed their stance on the handling of non-monetary uses within the network. They clarified that their role is neither to endorse nor obstruct data inscriptions and other non-financial activities.
This development has ignited significant discussions in the community, sparking debates around freedom, fees, and the fundamental purpose of Bitcoin.
Developer Position on Data Policies
Reports indicate that the Core team has stated they will not interfere with “harmless” data entering the blockchain. They emphasized that Bitcoin’s primary strength lies in its resistance to censorship. Thus, choices made by users and software must prevail.
For information regarding Bitcoin Core development and transaction relay policy – https://t.co/K4AaPPqTSD
— Bitcoin Core Project (@bitcoincoreorg) June 7, 2025
They made it clear that it is up to node operators to decide what they wish to accept. This strategy aims to maintain network freedom, even if it involves carrying additional data.
Community Opinions Divided
In response to the statement, feedback poured in. Samson Mow, CEO of JAN3, criticized the developers’ tone as empty, asserting that recent modifications have opened the door for spam. He contended that the removal of technical barriers invites unwanted data.
Bitcoin Core developers have been gradually altering the network to accommodate spam and now appear to be focused on removing barriers for spammers. It feels insincere to simply state “it is what it is now, too bad.”
This statement itself seems inappropriate. It resembles an NYA from Core developers. https://t.co/ACIqyvK12f
— Samson Mow (@Excellion) June 7, 2025
Conversely, Jameson Lopp from Casa commended the clear explanation of relay rules. He noted that a unified message from developers helps resolve prior confusion regarding policy.
Concerns from Recent Upgrades
On May 8, 2025, Core developers lifted a long-standing restriction on transaction data size, permitting users to include larger pieces of information within transactions. Critics are concerned that this may lead to increased blockchain bloat and higher fees.
BTC is currently trading at $106,052. Chart: TradingView
Supporters argue that anticipating what miners will include—and communicating that information—is vital for the smooth operation of Bitcoin. They assert that this neutral relay policy benefits both miners and users, even if not everyone agrees.
Future Forks and Layer Solutions
Looking forward, some speculate that a potential fork could create a “pure money” chain that blocks data inscriptions. Others anticipate that layer-2 networks or sidechains may handle the heavy lifting for art, messaging, and various applications.
Regardless, most believe that wallets and node software will soon provide options: one for clean, finance-only transactions, and another for those comfortable with additional data. This will enable users to make choices based on their preferences rather than relying on developers to decide for them.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
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