Bitcoin.com has partnered with Taiwanese telecommunications manufacturer HTC to bring Bitcoin Cash (BCH) support to its flagship Exodus smartphone series. The collaboration introduces a built-in wallet feature for BCH through a pre-installed Bitcoin.com wallet, available via a software update for Exodus 1 devices.
Key Features of HTC’s Exodus 1 Series
- Built-in BCH Wallet: Seamlessly integrated with the Zion Vault security system.
- Full Bitcoin Node Capability (Exodus 1s): The first smartphone to host a complete Bitcoin blockchain node.
- Enhanced Security: Hardware-level encryption synced with BCH blockchain protocols.
Phil Chen, HTC’s decentralized chief officer, emphasized:
“Zion Vault’s native BCH support merges hardware security with blockchain integrity, creating an alternative to traditional payment rails.”
Why Full Nodes Matter
HTC asserts that full-node functionality is critical for:
– Achieving truly private Bitcoin transactions
– Safeguarding Bitcoin’s decentralized future
– Democratizing mobile blockchain access
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HTC’s Strategic Pivot to Blockchain
Once a smartphone market leader (peaking at 10% global share in 2011), HTC’s mobile division dwindled to 1% market share by 2018. Their 2019 blockchain initiatives mark a bold reinvention:
| Milestone | Description |
|---|---|
| May 2019 | Added in-wallet ERC-20 token swaps on Exodus 1 |
| Q3 2019 | Bitcoin full-node capability on Exodus 1s |
| Ongoing | Investments in blockchain startups |
Industry Context:
LG is developing a rival blockchain phone with Korean dApp developers, signaling growing tech industry interest in decentralized mobile solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mine cryptocurrency with the Exodus 1s?
A: No. While it runs a full Bitcoin node, it doesn’t support mining due to hardware limitations.
Q: Is the BCH wallet compatible with other cryptocurrencies?
A: The pre-installed Bitcoin.com wallet specifically handles BCH, but the Zion Vault supports multiple crypto assets.
Q: How does full-node functionality impact battery life?
A: Running a node increases power consumption. HTC recommends charging during synchronization for large blockchain updates.
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