Native BTC Cross-Chain Swaps Come to Mintlayer’s Mainnet

Mintlayer Version 1.0.0 Release Date Scheduled for January 15th
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We are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of Mintlayer Version 1.0.0, a monumental upgrade that brings Atomic Swaps (i.e., Native BTC Cross-Chain Swaps) to life on our mainnet. Atomic Swaps are already live on our Testnet, we are finalizing our testing and, scheduled for Mainnet release on January 15th, this upgrade marks a significant milestone in our journey toward revolutionizing the Bitcoin ecosystem.

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Mintlayer Version 1.0.0 - Enhanced Features

Version 1.0.0 introduces two major updates: Atomic Swaps and improved trading functions that complete our first full version of Mintlayer. We've provided ample time until the scheduled release for all node operators to upgrade to the most recent version, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition for the entire network.

Introducing our DEX for Atomic Swap 

The standout feature of this release is the Atomic Swap Decentralized Exchange (DEX) ; this groundbreaking feature allows for seamless swapping of any asset issued on Mintlayer with native BTC. By eliminating intermediaries, we're enhancing security and efficiency, providing users with a truly decentralized and secure experience.

A Closer Look at Atomic Swaps

Atomic swaps enable direct, peer-to-peer cryptocurrency exchanges without intermediaries, using Hash Time Locked Contracts (HTLCs). These contracts secure funds in a time-based escrow, demanding a cryptographic passphrase for release, thus preventing fraud. Mintlayer's unique DEX does not rely on liquidity pools but uses a peer-to-peer order matching system, akin to centralized exchanges but without intermediaries. This setup ensures users retain control over their native assets throughout the transaction.

Improved Trading Functions

In addition to the atomic swap capability, we're introducing more flexible trading functions for Mintlayer-native assets. These enhancements are designed to provide users with greater control and versatility in managing their digital assets, paving the way for more dynamic and responsive trading strategies.

Realizing Our 2019 Vision

Version 1.0.0 represents the culmination of the roadmap we envisioned back in 2019. While we've made strategic adjustments along the way—such as integrating programmable pools into the zkRollup layer (ZKThunder) atop Mintlayer—we've remained steadfast in our mission to deliver a robust and future-proof blockchain platform. Mintlayer Version 1.0.0 represents the completion of our first goals we set out to achieve.

The Dawn of a Thriving Ecosystem

This release marks only the beginning. With the foundational groundwork for our DEX and Atomic Swaps now operational, it's time for other developers and projects to build upon Mintlayer, helping to cultivate a rich ecosystem of decentralized applications. While Mintlayer has developed the necessary infrastructure and Atomic Swap system, projects like Atomiq DeFi are tasked with advancing the user interface and dApps, simplifying the technology for a broader audience. We envision a vibrant community where developers, entrepreneurs, and users collaborate to create innovative solutions that fully harness the potential of the Mintlayer platform.

Ecosystem Grants: Fueling Innovation

To support this burgeoning ecosystem, we're launching an Ecosystem Grants program. These grants are designed to empower developers and projects that align with our vision of decentralized finance. Whether you're working on DeFi applications, NFT platforms, or any innovative blockchain project, we encourage you to apply and become a part of the Mintlayer journey. Stay tuned for more detailed information on our grant program to come.

Looking Ahead

As we approach the release date, we require all node operators to upgrade to the latest version to ensure they're ready to take full advantage of the new features (Note: Node Operators must update to version 1.0.0 because this is a hard fork of the network). We're confident that Version 1.0.0 will not only meet but exceed the expectations of our community.

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Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support. Together, we're building the future of decentralized finance.

— The Mintlayer Team

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