Jack Dorsey's crypto startup Block (formerly known as Square) is working on a bitcoin (EXANTE: Bitcoin) mining development kit as part of its mining hardware strategy.
Subscribe to our Telegram channel to get daily short digests about events that shape the crypto world
In a blog post, the firm said the so-called Mining Development Kit (or MDK) will feature a hashboard compatible with a custom-built control board with support for third party controllers, such as Raspberry Pi. The startup is also exploring using various programming languages to build the API (e.g., C, Rush) and supported operating systems (e.g., Linux).
Block says the idea behind the MDK is to give blockchain developers a suite of tools to help "unlock creativity and innovation in bitcoin mining hardware." The firm added:
"We anticipate the MDK being useful for development projects focused on integrating bitcoin mining into various novel use cases — such as heating solutions, off-grid mining, home mining or intermittent power applications — as well as optimization of bitcoin mining hardware for traditional commercial mining operations."
Although no estimated release date was set, Block sees "significant opportunity" in the MDK to increase not only accessibility, but also openness of bitcoin mining hardware to "accelerate innovation in the field."
In the meantime, Block is working on its self-custody looked-like-a-rock bitcoin hardware wallet. The flat hexagonal gadget would get support for USB-C charging ports in addition to a fingerprint sensor. It is unclear though when exactly Block plans to release the wallet.
Access more than 50 of the world's financial markets directly from your EXANTE account – including NASDAQ, London Stock Exchange and Tokyo Stock Exchange