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In an interview with Chase from compoundIn this article, we explore the growing appetite for next-generation virtual machines that aim to enhance Bitcoin’s programmability and scalability. Molecule is one of the companies leading the charge. Its attempt to implement the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) using Bitcoin is a strong signal that developers are also considering alternatives to the popular Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
High Performance Virtual Machines for Bitcoin
Chase emphasized that Molecule’s goal is to leverage the most performance-driven execution environment for the benefit of Bitcoin users. He believes the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) offers unparalleled throughput and cost efficiency. “SVM delivers the highest throughput with a highly tested execution environment,” Chase noted, highlighting the VM’s ability to achieve 1,000 transactions per second for a fraction of a cent per transaction.
The SVM architecture, designed for parallel transaction processing, greatly enhances scalability and efficiency. At a very basic level, it enables the simultaneous execution of multiple smart contracts, setting SVM apart from other virtual machines that rely on serial processing models, such as the EVM. This results in increased throughput and lower latency, which is critical for applications that require high performance and low transaction costs.
Thriving developer ecosystem
One of the main reasons Molecule decided to adopt the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) lies in its thriving developer ecosystem and the widespread adoption of Rust as a programming language. Solana boasts over 3,300 active developers as of late 2023, According to Electric CapitalThis strong community is supported by extensive educational tools and resources that have greatly improved developer retention.
Chase also noted that Rust, the development language created by Solana, has played a critical role in SVM’s success. With over 3 million Rust developers worldwide, the transition to SVM has been seamless for many of them, given their familiarity with the language. This broad developer base and the language’s strong integration into Web3 systems ensures that SVM is not only technically superior, but also conducive to broader adoption and innovation.
By focusing on VMs that align well with developer preferences and provide a robust and scalable environment, Molecule ensures that it is building on a foundation that encourages rapid development and deployment of new applications on Bitcoin.
homogeneous vision vs. standard vision
Another focus was on the inherent limitations of Bitcoin’s layer one, which requires a modular approach to enhance programmability and scalability. Traditional homogeneous blockchains integrate all core functions — execution, data availability, consensus, and settlement — into a single layer. While this design enhances security and decentralization, it also creates significant bottlenecks that limit transaction throughput and resilience. Bitcoin’s layer one can only process a limited number of transactions per second, limiting its ability to support complex smart contracts and higher transaction volumes.
To address these limitations, Molecule takes a modular approach, separating these functions into distinct layers. This architecture allows for specialization and optimization of each layer, greatly improving scalability and efficiency. By leveraging modular stacks, Molecule aims to integrate Solana’s execution layer (SVM) with Bitcoin’s zero-knowledge (ZK) transaction verification.
Molecule’s innovative SVM toolkit focuses on enabling transaction verification via ZKVM (Zero-Knowledge Virtual Machine) and deploying ZK snarks (Non-Interactive Brief Knowledge Arguments) on Bitcoin using a challenge and reward mechanism. This method ensures transactions are completed securely and efficiently on Bitcoin.
Molecule is exploring different options for this challenge mechanism, possibly using BitVM or a variant based on the future OP_CAT soft fork. BitVM uses a proof-of-challenge system where any verifier can challenge transactions during a pre-defined challenge period, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of asset transfers. “You can verify any asset transfer from Molecule to Bitcoin,” Chase explained. “There’s a challenge period where any verifier can come in and say, ‘Hey, there’s some issues,’ and then they can go through this challenge mechanism.” This approach combines off-chain computation with on-chain verification, providing a robust and cost-effective solution for maintaining the finality and security of transactions.
New Story About Bitcoin L2
When asked about the Bitcoin community’s stance on layer 2 (L2) solutions, Chase noted a marked shift in attitude toward embracing programmability. Traditionally, many Bitcoin purists have been wary of layer 2 solutions, fearing they could compromise network security and decentralization. However, recent developments and the growing demand for more scalable applications have begun to change that perspective.
“I think the Bitcoin community is definitely asking for Bitcoin to be programmable. SVM is the best solution for that in terms of throughput and cost,” Chase said, emphasizing the community’s openness to L2 innovations.
Molecule’s innovative approach and commitment to integrating high-performance virtual machines (VMs) with Bitcoin represents a transformational step toward enhancing Bitcoin’s utility and scalability.
This is a guest post from The Rollup. The opinions expressed here are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.
