Trezor Launches Safe 7 Hardware Wallet
Trezor has introduced its latest hardware wallet, the Safe 7. It features a fully open-source secure element and post-quantum firmware signing. The device was unveiled at a launch event in Prague.
This release highlights Trezor’s commitment to transparency in an industry that often uses closed, NDA-protected hardware components.
Safe 7’s Open-Source Chip and Security Features
The Safe 7 uses a new chip called Tropic01. This chip was developed by Tropic Square, a semiconductor startup co-founded by Trezor in 2020. Unlike typical secure elements from companies like STMicroelectronics or Infineon, Tropic01’s design and firmware are fully auditable and open to public testing.
Researchers can buy and analyze the chip without signing non-disclosure agreements. This openness contrasts with the usual restrictions that limit external review of wallet hardware.
Tomas Susanka, Trezor’s CTO, said, “No one is going to lie to you about its security. You don’t have to trust me on that. You can now verify.”
The Safe 7 also features a dual-chip design. It pairs Tropic01 with a secondary NDA-free element to enhance tamper resistance. The wallet includes hardware limits on PIN attempts and automatic data erasure if intrusion is detected. It also supports wireless connectivity secured by a proprietary open protocol over Bluetooth.
Post-Quantum Security and Industry Impact
The Safe 7 is the first wallet to include a post-quantum bootloader. This bootloader uses algorithms resistant to future quantum-computer attacks. Most wallets, even those used by institutions, have not yet adopted such protections.
Trezor said this upgrade ensures firmware updates remain verifiable even if current public-key systems become obsolete.
The company stressed the importance of preparing for quantum threats. Although Bitcoin and most cryptocurrencies are not quantum-proof yet, Trezor believes wallet security must evolve before these threats emerge.
By making its chip design public, Trezor challenges the hardware wallet industry’s reliance on secretive secure elements. This move pushes for greater transparency and verifiable security in crypto custody.
The Safe 7 is priced at $249. Shipping is expected later this year.
