Jimmy Song Criticizes Bitcoin Core Upgrade Decision

Bitcoin developer Jimmy Song has criticized the Bitcoin Core team’s decision to remove the OP_Return data limit, labeling their approach as exhibiting a “fiat mentality.”

Jimmy Song’s Criticism

Bitcoin developer Jimmy Song has expressed strong opposition to the Bitcoin Core team’s decision to remove the 80-byte limit on OP_Return data. Song argues that this change undermines Bitcoin’s core principles. “You can argue whether that’s something desirable or not, but saying you can’t define it is a stalling tactic meant to avoid the real argument about actual impact — particularly, the long-term impact of this change.”

The Bitcoin Core upgrade, planned in its 30th version, involves changing OP_Return handling. Song describes the developers’ logic as a “fiat mentality,” criticizing deflections of community concerns.

Infrastructure Shifts

The immediate reaction shows a migration towards Bitcoin Knots, an alternative Bitcoin network with stricter data limits. Bitcoin Knots now comprises about 20% of network nodes, indicating a clear infrastructure shift.

This shift has not significantly impacted the BTC price or overall cryptocurrency market stability. On-chain data shows no major liquidity changes linked to the OP_Return debate.

Historical Context and Community Resilience

Nostalgic echoes of the 2015–2017 block size wars resurface as the community debates the implications of OP_Return changes. Similar controversies could potentially incite further technological and social splits within the Bitcoin community.

Observers recall the Bitcoin Cash fork as historical precedent, questioning if OP_Return disputes could produce comparable impacts. Without imminent financial shifts or regulations mentioned, the focus stays on community resilience and infrastructural preference shifts.