Introduction
Learn about RGB++ Protocol, the revolutionary technology that unifies Bitcoin's security with CKB's programmability.
What is RGB++?
The RGB++ Protocol is a simple protocol that enhances Bitcoin Layer 1 programmability by establishing a binding between Bitcoin UTXOs and Turing-complete CKB Scripts. This binding enables Bitcoin's security to work seamlessly with CKB's programmability.
At its core, RGB++ Protocol uses a specific Bitcoin UTXO as a single-use seal - a cryptographic commitment that can only be used once, leveraging Bitcoin's inherent UTXO properties. This UTXO, along with its corresponding CKB cells, serves as the cryptographic proof, or the commitment, of ownership for RGB++ assets. When a single-use seal is consumed, the ownership of the RGB++ asset is guaranteed to be transferred to the new UTXO or the wallet controlling it.
The protocol employs CKB Cells to represent RGB++ asset ownership relationships, establishing an isomorphic binding with Bitcoin UTXOs. In this architecture, CKB serves dual roles: as a public database for assets and as an off-chain pre-settlement layer.
RGB++ Protocol unifies Bitcoin's security with CKB's programmability, enabling sophisticated applications directly on Bitcoin. Developers can now create advanced smart contracts that power decentralized applications, from IDO platforms to liquid staking pools, and more.
For more detailed information, please refer to the RGB++ Protocol Light Paper or its Chinese version.
Architecture Overview
- • UTXO management and single-use seals
- • Cryptographic commitments via OP_RETURN
- • Asset ownership representation
- • Programmable scripts and smart contracts
- • Asset state management and validation
- • Public database for RGB++ assets
Typical Transaction Flow
Each RGB++ transaction generates a pair of corresponding transactions: one on Bitcoin and one on CKB. This dual-chain approach ensures both security and programmability.
Calculate commitment using CKB transaction, Bitcoin UTXOs, and placeholder values
Submit Bitcoin transaction with OP_RETURN commitment and create new UTXO
Submit CKB transaction with RGB++ asset state recorded in output data
Validate UTXO spending, Bitcoin transaction existence, and state transitions
Key Features
Bitcoin UTXOs serve as cryptographic commitments that can only be used once, ensuring asset uniqueness and preventing double-spending.
One-to-one mapping mechanism linking Bitcoin UTXOs to CKB Cells, enabling ownership synchronization.
Leverage CKB's RISC-V based virtual machine for sophisticated smart contract logic.
Seamless asset transfers and state management between Bitcoin and CKB networks.
Bitcoin light client implementation on CKB enables secure transaction verification.
Blockchain-enhanced state validation that maintains privacy while ensuring security.
Why RGB++?
RGB++ Protocol addresses the fundamental limitations of Bitcoin's scripting system while maintaining its security guarantees. By leveraging CKB's programmability, RGB++ enables sophisticated applications that were previously impossible on Bitcoin.
Advantages over Traditional Approaches
- Decentralized Authentication without centralized entities
- Mature Virtual Machines and Contract Languages
- Efficient Shared States and Hosted Contracts
Technical Innovation
RGB++ takes a different approach by leveraging CKB's Turing-complete script system to implement asset security checks. This design offers a more straightforward and accessible verification process for all users while maintaining system transparency.