BTQ Technologies has rolled out Bitcoin Quantum testnet v0.3.0, introducing the first live implementation of Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 360.
The release provides developers, miners, and researchers with a functioning environment to test quantum-resistant bitcoin transactions in real time.
The update centres on BIP 360, which introduces a new transaction output format known as Pay-to-Merkle-Root.
This new structure aims to address long-term security risks linked to the exposure of public keys in current bitcoin transactions.
Existing Taproot transactions can reveal public keys during certain processes, creating potential vulnerabilities in a future dominated by quantum computing.
BIP 360 removes this exposure risk by eliminating the key-path mechanism while maintaining bitcoin’s advanced scripting capabilities.
The model ensures compatibility with tools such as Lightning, BitVM, and Ark without introducing additional quantum-related threats.
BTQ’s testnet moves the proposal from concept to execution, allowing users to create, sign, and broadcast transactions using the new format.
The system includes full validation processes, covering everything from address generation to transaction confirmation on the network.
Early adoption appears strong, with more than 50 miners already active on the network.
The testnet has processed over 100,000 blocks, signalling steady participation and testing activity.
An open-source community of more than 100 contributors is actively involved in refining and stress-testing the system.
The update also introduces faster block times of one minute, improving efficiency for testing scenarios.
Additional changes support larger post-quantum signatures, making the network more practical for real-world applications.
“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,”
Olivier Roussy Newton said.
The launch comes as governments worldwide increase efforts to prepare for post-quantum security challenges.
In the United States, federal agencies are required to submit transition plans for quantum-safe systems by April 2026.
Similar initiatives are already underway across Europe and Canada as policymakers address emerging risks.
While BIP 360 remains under discussion within the bitcoin proposal process, progress on the main network has been slow.
BTQ’s testnet offers an alternative route by enabling early experimentation before formal adoption.
The company plans to expand its ecosystem further, including the development of a dedicated mining pool.
BTQ is also exploring additional services focused on quantum-safe infrastructure as demand for secure digital systems continues to rise.