Swiss man makes history with implantable Bitcoin chip

A Swiss IT professional known as F418 has made headlines after surgically implanting a chip that enables him to make contactless payments using the cryptocurrency Bitcoin. The chip, which was implanted into F418's left hand, allows him to make Lightning Network (LN) payments simply by holding his hand near a compatible NFC reader.

F418 shared the instructions for the implantation process on GitHub, calling it "Lightning Paw." However, he made it clear that the procedure is not without risks and that he does not recommend others follow in his footsteps. The chip is not as secure as a traditional debit card and can only be used for LNURL withdraws, according to F418.

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The Lightning Network is a second-layer payment protocol that operates on top of the Bitcoin blockchain. It allows for fast and cheap transactions by creating a network of payment channels between users, enabling them to transact directly without each transaction being recorded on the blockchain. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to make quick and cost-effective payments using Bitcoin.

NFC technology, which allows for wireless communication between devices, has been used in various ways in the Bitcoin world. In addition to the Lightning Network, it has also been used for payments with the use of the Bolt Card.

F418 is part of the "grinders" movement, which involves the use of technology to enhance or augment the human body. Grinders often implant technology into their bodies for practical or philosophical reasons, although the implants they use are not typically approved by regulatory bodies and may not be as safe as mainstream medical devices.

The use of implantable chips for payments is a growing trend, with various companies developing such devices. However, it is important to note that the implantation process carries certain risks, including the potential for harm or infection if not done correctly. As such, it is not something that should be undertaken lightly.

Despite the risks, F418's implantation has sparked interest in the potential for using implantable technology for payments. While the technology is still in its early stages and is not yet widely available, it is likely that we will see more people experimenting with it in the future. In the meantime, those interested in using Bitcoin for payments have a range of other options to choose from, including traditional debit cards and mobile wallets.