Bitcoin Core 30 Launch Sparks Debate Over Data Expansion

Bitcoin Core 30 Rolls Out With Controversial Data Limit Increase

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: October 13, 2025

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin Core 30 introduces major upgrades, including optional node encryption for improved privacy and overall system performance;
The OP_RETURN data limit jumps from 80 bytes to 100,000, which allows more non-financial data to be stored in Bitcoin transactions;
Supporters see new creative uses for Bitcoin, while critics warn of higher costs, slower nodes, and blockchain bloat.

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The release of Bitcoin BTC $114,452.20 Core version 30 has raised mixed opinions across the Bitcoin ecosystem.

This update includes several technical improvements, but the change gaining the most attention is an increase to the OP_RETURN data limit, expanded from 80 bytes to 100,000 bytes.

Additionally, the update brings performance upgrades, stronger security features, and support for encrypted communication between nodes.

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The OP_RETURN feature allows users to add extra information to Bitcoin transactions. By raising the limit, the update allows for much larger amounts of non-financial data to be stored directly on the blockchain.

Alex Bergeron from Ark Labs shared plans in a post on X to take full advantage of the extra space. He suggested it could make Bitcoin more competitive with other blockchain platforms.

Pavol Rusnak, a co-founder of Satoshi Labs, also voiced support for version 30 due to the careful development process and well-reviewed code.

However, not everyone agrees with this direction. Critics argued that embedding large amounts of data could increase storage costs, slow down node performance, and even introduce regulatory complications.

Some users continue to rely on alternative software like "Bitcoin Knots". This version lets node operators enforce stricter data size limits, which helps them avoid the effects of the new OP_RETURN increase.

Recently, Nick Szabo, a Bitcoin pioneer, voiced concerns about the OP_RETURN function. What did he say? Read the full story.