Bitcoin Core Releases Version 30.0 with OP_RETURN Limit Removed
The Bitcoin Core team has launched version 30.0 of its software. This update removes the 80-byte limit on the OP_RETURN field. OP_RETURN allows users to add extra data to Bitcoin transactions.
According to the official announcement, the update changes how Bitcoin nodes handle data in transactions. Previously, users could only add small data pieces. Now, nodes can send transactions with data payloads up to several megabytes, depending on block size.
The developers clarified this is a policy change, not a consensus change. It does not alter Bitcoin’s core rules or cause a hard fork. Node operators and miners can still set their own data limits.
Bitcoin Core is open-source software. It descends directly from the original code created by Satoshi Nakamoto. It includes full-node software for blockchain validation and a Bitcoin wallet.
Support and Criticism of the Update
Supporters say the update makes Bitcoin more flexible. It could enable new uses like timestamping, document authentication, and decentralized identity systems. They also believe it reduces unsafe workarounds that hide data in normal transactions, which can bloat the blockchain.
However, the update has sparked controversy since its release. The Bitcoin Core team announced it via a post on X, which received mixed reactions.
In June 2025, Bitcoin pioneer Peter Todd proposed changing the OP_RETURN policy. Chaincode Labs supported this move. The change removes the 80-byte limit and allows “unlimited data inclusion.”
Todd warned, “It doesn’t make economic sense to use OP_RETURN for large amounts of data. Witness space is cheaper.” Other critics were more direct. Developer Jimmy Song said allowing OP_RETURN outputs larger than 83 bytes would increase “garbage” on the chain and worsen UTXO bloat.
Meanwhile, Samson Mow and Luke Dashjr expressed concerns about centralization. They argued rising storage costs might favor large operators.
