Bitcoin Knots Tries Again with BLAKE2b Fork After BIP-110 Failure

Bitcoin Knots is attempting to fork Bitcoin once again after its previous chain died in just two blocks. This new attempt, which involves switching to a BLAKE2b proof-of-work system, aims to avoid relying on existing SHA-256d miners. The proposal had previously stalled with the BIP-110 split.

The rehearsal for this fork is scheduled for Sunday and will involve testing the new chain's viability. According to Luke Dashjr, the final SHA-2 block would be established before the switch, and if successful, a final 29.4.1 release could preserve the new chain on September 1.

The BLAKE2b implementation is still open as of August 29, with some key proof-of-work changes remaining unresolved. The proposal also has not publicly identified any major exchanges, wallets, or custodians committed to supporting the new chain.

A successful BLAKE2b block would demonstrate that the fork can run, but it would not necessarily guarantee its economic viability. Backers claim that machines originally built for Sia mining, such as Bitmain's Antminer A3 and Goldshell SC5 models, can support the new proof-of-work system.