Analysis of the Four Key Features of RGB++ Layer: The Key Hub of BTCFi and the UTXO Ecosystem

In July 2024, CKB officially launched the RGB++ Layer, transforming the RGB++ protocol from theory into practical application. The RGB++ Layer is based on the RGB++ protocol and utilizes homomorphic binding and Leap technology to provide a bridge-less cross-chain experience for RGB++ native assets or inscriptions/runes across UTXO-based public chains like BTC, CKB, and Cardano. At the same time, it leverages CKB's smart contract environment to build infrastructure for Bitcoin, from asset issuance to complex DeFi functionalities.

The core features of RGB++ Layer include homomorphic binding, Leap bridge-less cross-chain, CKB-VM smart contract engine, and native account abstraction ecology. These features collectively build the key hub between BTCFi and the UTXO world.

RGB++ Protocol: Theoretical Foundation

The core concept of the RGB++ protocol is to replace the "client-side validation" of the RGB protocol with on-chain verification on the CKB chain, using CKB as a decentralized indexer responsible for data storage and asset source verification. This addresses the limitations of the RGB protocol in terms of user experience and DeFi support.

RGB++ introduces the concept of isomorphic binding, using CKB's Cell as the data carrier for inscriptions/runic assets, and establishes a binding relationship with UTXOs on UTXO public chains such as Bitcoin, inheriting the security of these public chains.

Isomorphic Binding and Leap: No-Bridge Cross-Chain Technology

Isomorphic binding allows users to operate RGB++ asset data on the CKB chain using accounts from different public chains such as BTC and Cardano. Leap technology, based on isomorphic binding, achieves "rebinding" of RGB++ assets across different UTXO public chains, resulting in a bridge-less cross-chain effect.

This method is simpler than the traditional Lock-Mint cross-chain model, avoiding dependence on the mapping asset contract. In practice, users can complete synchronized transactions on the CKB and BTC chains with one click through their Bitcoin account.

CKB-VM: The smart contract engine of BTCFi

CKB-VM provides smart contract support for RGB++ Layer, supporting any programming language compatible with RISC-V virtual machine. This allows developers to efficiently develop secure smart contracts using familiar tools and languages within a unified framework.

Native Account Abstraction Ecosystem: Seamless Integration of BTC and RGB++

RGB++ Layer reuses CKB's native account abstraction scheme, supporting users to directly operate assets on the RGB++ Layer using various accounts and authentication methods such as BTC, Cardano, and even WebAuthn. This compatibility greatly enhances the user experience and paves the way for the widespread adoption of the BTCFi ecosystem.

Overall, the RGB++ Layer provides strong infrastructure support for the BTCFi and UTXO ecosystems through its four core features, and is expected to drive innovation and development in Bitcoin financial applications.