SuperTestnet | Introduces Brick Wallet
Bitcoin developer SuperTestnet launched Brick Wallet, a simple, web-based Lightning wallet for Bitcoin transactions using Nostr Wallet Connect (NWC), an API for managing Lightning wallets. Users must connect Brick Wallet to a back-end server that supports NWC, such as Bankify. After that, the wallet allows users to send and receive transactions without needing specialized software. This lowers the entry barriers to using the Bitcoin and Lightning ecosystems. Future updates will support LNURL for base layer transactions and Lightning address integration, expanding SuperTestnet’s already extensive contributions to Bitcoin software.
SimpleX | Privacy-First Messenger Blocked in Russia
SimpleX, an open-source messaging platform, was recently blocked in Russia due to the privacy and security it provides users. Unlike traditional messaging apps, such as Signal, that require phone numbers or emails, SimpleX uses pairwise addresses (temporary unique identifiers), making it harder for servers or third parties to track communications. With end-to-end encryption, SimpleX allows users to securely exchange messages, files, and media, providing a vital tool for those living under surveillance-heavy regimes like Russia.
HTX | Integrates Lightning Network
HTX (previously Huobi), a global digital asset exchange, integrated the Bitcoin Lightning Network in a strategic partnership with IBEX, a company building on Lightning. With this integration, HTX users will enjoy faster transactions, increased privacy, and lower fees when transacting in Bitcoin. HTX and IBEX will also explore other application scenarios, including payments, transfers, and settlements. These enhancements will help its users across over 180 countries take advantage of the financial freedom offered by open-source technology. This upgrade marks yet another major step forward for Bitcoin’s Lightning Network.
Blitz Wallet | Integrates Ecash for Small Payments
Blitz Wallet rolled out its v0.2.7 beta update, integrating ecash into its self-custodial and open-source Bitcoin Lightning wallet. This update enables users to make payments of up to 1,000 satoshis using ecash (a privacy-focused digital money system backed by Bitcoin that, while custodial or federated, offers instant, fee-free transactions). Larger payments made on Blitz will default to the Liquid and Lightning Networks. In addition to integrating ecash, Blitz also supports anonymous SMS and multiple protocols (including Lightning and Liquid). Blitz could be a helpful Bitcoin wallet for anyone living under heavy financial restrictions.
OpenSats | Announces Long-Term Support for Mike Dilger and Jason Donenfeld
OpenSats, a nonprofit funding free and open-source software and projects, announced long-term grants for Mike Dilger and Jason Donenfeld. Dilger, the lead developer of Gossip, a privacy-focused Nostr client, will continue improving the platform with features like event replies and file upload support. He plans to implement advanced features like Blossom to allow users to store data on publicly accessible servers. OpenSats will also support Donenfeld, the creator of the WireGuard VPN protocol and the primary author of the Linux kernel’s random number generator (RNG). Donenfeld’s contributions are critical for securing transactions in the Bitcoin ecosystem and maintaining cryptographic robustness.
HRF | Gifts 1 Billion Satoshis to 20 Open Source Projects Worldwide
HRF donated 1 billion satoshis to 20 open-source projects in its latest rounds of grants through the Bitcoin Development Fund. These grants support technical education for those living under authoritarian regimes; initiatives to decentralize Bitcoin mining; and strengthening financial privacy tools for dissidents. The projects are located across Latin America, Asia, and Africa. By funding these initiatives, HRF aims to help at-risk individuals and organizations seize their financial freedom to keep their work and operations going, even if dictators want them to stop.
Learn more about the grantees and the projects they’re working on here.