BTQ Launches Quantum-Resistant Bitcoin Testnet With BIP 360

BTQ Technologies has launched the first working implementation of BIP 360 on its Bitcoin Quantum testnet. The update allows developers to test quantum-resistant bitcoin transactions in a live environment.

Bitcoin Quantum Testnet Debuts BIP 360 Implementation

BTQ Technologies has introduced Bitcoin Quantum testnet v0.3.0, marking the first live implementation of Bitcoin Improvement Proposal (BIP) 360. The release gives developers, miners, and researchers a working environment to test quantum-resistant bitcoin transactions.

BIP 360 introduces a new output type called Pay-to-Merkle-Root (P2MR). This design aims to address a long-term security concern in bitcoin. Current Taproot transactions can expose public keys during certain operations. In a future with powerful quantum computers, these keys could become vulnerable to attack.

The P2MR model removes this risk. It keeps bitcoin’s advanced scripting features while avoiding the key-path mechanism that could expose sensitive data. This means tools like Lightning, BitVM, and Ark can continue to function without added quantum risk.

BTQ’s testnet moves BIP 360 beyond theory. Users can now create, sign, and broadcast P2MR transactions using full wallet support. The system includes complete validation, from address creation to final confirmation on the network.

The testnet also shows strong early activity. More than 50 miners are already participating, and the network has processed over 100,000 blocks. An open-source community of over 100 contributors is helping test and improve the system.

Olivier Roussy Newton, CEO and Chairman of BTQ Technologies, remarked that BIP 360 represented bitcoin’s most significant push toward quantum resistance.

He stated:

“ Bitcoin Quantum exists to prove that quantum-safe solutions work in practice, not just on paper. By shipping a full BIP 360 implementation on testnet, we’re giving the entire industry a live environment to validate these critical protections before the quantum threat arrives.”

Beyond BIP 360, the update includes faster one-minute block times and changes to support larger post-quantum signatures. These improvements make the network more practical for testing real-world use cases.

The timing is notable, as governments are increasing their focus on post-quantum security. In the United States, federal agencies must submit transition plans by April 2026. Similar efforts are underway in Europe and Canada.

Despite BIP 360 entering the bitcoin proposal process, progress on the main bitcoin network remains slow. BTQ’s approach offers a faster path by giving the industry a place to test solutions before full adoption.

The company also plans to build a mining pool and expand services tied to quantum-safe infrastructure, as demand for secure digital systems continues to grow.

FAQ 🌎

• What is BIP 360 in Bitcoin?

BIP 360 is a proposed upgrade that introduces a quantum-resistant transaction type called Pay-to-Merkle-Root.

• Why is quantum resistance important for Bitcoin?

Future quantum computers could break current cryptographic methods, making it important to develop safer alternatives now.

• What does the Bitcoin Quantum testnet do?

It provides a live environment where developers and miners can test quantum-safe Bitcoin transactions.

• Has Bitcoin adopted BIP 360 yet?

No. It remains a proposal, but BTQ has implemented it in a testnet for real-world testing.