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Runes is a token standard created as a result of Casey Rodarmor, founder of Ordinals, recognizing various flaws in the existing token schemes like BRC20 and Taproot Assets on the Bitcoin network and arising with an idea to create a homogenous token protocol based on UTXO.
Key Features:
- Based on UTXO: Runes balances are held by UTXOs, where each UTXO can contain any quantity of Runes.
- Transaction and Protocol Information: Outputs containing specific scripts are considered part of the protocol information, specifying the transfer and allocation of Runes.
- Flexibility: Runes transfers are defined by interpreting data pushes in transactions, allowing flexible allocation of Runes to different outputs.
- Issuance: If there's a second data push in the protocol message, it's considered an issuance transaction, allowing for the creation of new Runes.
- Simplicity and Decentralization: The Runes protocol aims to be as simple as possible, independent of off-chain data, without native tokens, and suitable for Bitcoin's UTXO model.
- Symbol Allocation: Runes can have associated symbols, but the protocol doesn't attempt to prevent symbol squatting to maintain simplicity.
Innovations, Advantages, and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Based on UTXO: The Rune protocol utilizes Bitcoin's native UTXO model, addressing issues like UTXO bloat in BRC20, allowing Runes to integrate more naturally into the Bitcoin system.
- Independent of Off-Chain Data: All information in the Rune protocol is contained within on-chain transactions, reducing complexity and enhancing user experience.
- Native BTC Token: Unlike sidechains or BTC Layer 2 solutions that require native tokens for transaction fees, the Rune protocol doesn't need any additional tokens, simplifying the usage process.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of Anti-Squatting Mechanism: Rune doesn't have a mechanism to prevent token symbol squatting, potentially leading to early registration of ideal symbols.
- Lengthy Token Names Hindering Adoption and Exchange Listings: Long token names may hinder dissemination and exchange listings.
- Allowance for Project Reservations, Questioning Fair Distribution: Allowing projects to reserve tokens raises concerns about fair distribution.
How Runes can be Minted and Traded:
Many tools that support BRC20 minting also support Runes minting. Platforms like GeniiData, Runestore, and Luminex are popular because they can monitor popular Rune mints simultaneously. Additionally, TG bot BTCBot offers a convenient way to mint Runes quickly, apart from web front ends. |
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