Bitcoin Core v30 Sparks Debate With Unlimited Data Update

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: September 29, 2025

Key Takeaways

Bitcoin Core v30 removes the 80-byte limit on OP_RETURN, which allows up to 4MB of data in each transaction output;
Some developers warn that storing more data on-chain could bloat the blockchain and raise long-term node costs;
Nick Szabo voiced concerns about legal and technical risks tied to easily accessible, prunable OP_RETURN data.

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Bitcoin Core developers have shared a second test version of their upcoming software update, Version 30, expected to go live in October.

The update introduces a new system for wallet management and removes older features, but the most notable change involves the OP_RETURN function.

This feature lets users add extra information to Bitcoin BTC $113,923.66 transactions. Previously, there was a limit of 80 bytes for such data. The new version removes this limit, which possibly allows up to 4 megabytes of information per transaction output.

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Some developers and users believe Bitcoin should remain focused on transferring money, rather than handling large chunks of data. Their concern is that allowing more data storage will increase the size of the blockchain.

Nick Szabo, a Bitcoin pioneer, rejoined the conversation on X after nearly five years away. He stated that simply relying on fees might not offer enough protection for regular users who operate full nodes.

While fees help filter spam for miners, he noted that node operators could still face high storage demands.

Szabo also pointed out that because OP_RETURN data is easy to access and view using standard tools, it could be more likely to draw legal attention if it includes illegal content.

On the other hand, Szabo noted that OP_RETURN data can be pruned, which means it does not need to be stored forever, unlike other types of embedded data.

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