You can pay with BTC without internet!
Bitcoin, the world’s most popular cryptocurrency, is often accused of being entirely dependent on the internet. Well, in a recent experiment in the US, it was proven that this may not be entirely true! A Bitcoin transaction was successfully made via a simple and non-technical communication channel without an internet connection.
So, isn’t that intriguing? Well, here are some main points to refresh your thinking regarding Bitcoin’s dependence on the internet:
- A peer-to-peer system allows Bitcoin transactions between devices without any need for an internet connection — Bitcoin can be transferred via satellite technologies without the internet and hence is good for places with limited internet access — This unique trait of the Bitcoin network results in much-improved safety on the network as data breaches over the internet are avoided.
A Bitcoin transaction was successfully transmitted by a radio broadcasting station in New York in 2019, without the use of the internet or satellite. The transmission was made possible through an application called JS8Call, which is designed to send text strings via radio frequencies. A HAM operator in Canada received the signal and used open source software Electrum to broadcast the transaction to the Bitcoin network. The transaction involved sending 0.1 Bitcoin, equivalent to $370 at that time, from a wallet on the broadcasting end to a wallet on the receiving end. This experiment demonstrated the potential of using radio waves to transmit Bitcoin transactions in areas without reliable internet connectivity, such as rural or remote areas. However, it also highlighted the challenges and limitations of using this method, including the need for specialized equipment and technical expertise. It is important to note that this experiment was conducted as a proof of concept and should not be considered a practical or safe way to conduct Bitcoin transactions. The most reliable and secure method for conducting Bitcoin transactions is still through the use of the internet.
With regards to the recent experiment that used Radio to transfer Bitcoin, it was exciting to note that this transfer triggered most audience interest, and truly it did mine too. This experiment showed us the true potential of blockchain technology, and it is something worth exploring.
Imagine having satellite-supported Bitcoin, opening up new possibilities where internet access is limited or non-existent. This would strengthen Bitcoin’s adoption in remote areas where conventional banking systems have failed, providing financial access to the unbanked in the world.
In conclusion, this experiment demonstrated the security and flexibility of the Bitcoin network. And it was a memorable shift in how we think of Bitcoin as solely an internet-dependent currency. In the coming years, we may see more innovative blockchain technologies that expand the use of cryptocurrencies beyond the internet’s boundaries.
So, what are your thoughts regarding Bitcoin transfers without the internet? Any personal stories to share? Let me know in the comments!
