Bitcoin Core 29.0 Enables Full RBF by Default

Bitcoin Core 29.0, released recently, now enables full Replace-By-Fee (RBF) by default, prompting varied community reactions.

This change significantly impacts transaction prioritization, attracting both proponents and critics within the crypto community.

Full RBF Integration Shifts Transaction Handling

This latest Bitcoin Core update marks a shift in transaction handling by enabling full RBF. Previous versions offered limited RBF use, prioritizing confirmed transactions.

Key developers and stakeholders endorsed this change, citing increased transaction flexibility and enhanced user experience. This update categorically alters transaction dynamics.

Mixed Reactions to Altered Transaction Dynamics

The full RBF implementation may initially alter transaction confirmations and network behavior. Long-term effects include potentially higher network efficiency.

While some see expanded RBF as beneficial, concerns remain about transaction security and the implications for transaction fees. “Full-RBF makes sure that transactions are always replaceable…such a feature reduces legal risks that might arise from unconfirmed double-spends…full-RBF also increases privacy by making it more challenging for blockchain sleuths to deanonymize transactions.” – Peter Todd, Bitcoin Developer, Bitcoin Core. Source

RBF Adoption Follows History of Fee Flexibility

Full RBF follows past experimentation with flexible fees, seen in early Bitcoin Core updates. Its adoption continues this trend towards adaptive transaction mechanics.

Historically, fee dynamics have shaped transaction costs and confirmation times. Experts predict further incremental adjustments in transaction strategies, depending on future responses.