Bitcoin Introduces Pay-to-Merkle-Root to Counter Quantum Threats

Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 360 (BIP 360) has been officially integrated into the BIP repository, marking a significant step in enhancing Bitcoin's security against potential quantum computing threats. According to NS3.AI, the new Pay-to-Merkle-Root (P2MR) output is designed to disable the key-path spending method, thereby reducing the exposure of public keys. This development is part of a broader initiative to prepare Bitcoin for future quantum-resistant upgrades. The move aligns with global efforts to establish quantum-safe cryptographic standards, which are anticipated to be adopted by the 2030s.