Bitcoin Cash's new address format, CashAddr, is set to launch this Sunday (January 14). While the Bitcoin Cash development team has already updated systems for this change, many users still have questions. This article aims to clarify these doubts.
1. What Is CashAddr?
CashAddr is Bitcoin Cash's new address format. If you've seen a Bitcoin (BTC) or Bitcoin Cash (BCH) address before, you’ll recognize it as a long string of letters and numbers.
CashAddr introduces a new encoding method, visually distinct from legacy formats.
2. How Does the New Address Look?
Here’s an example: bitcoincash:qpm2qsznhks23z7629mms6s4cwef74vcwvy22gdx6a
- The prefix
bitcoincash:is technically part of the address, though some wallets may make it optional or omit it.
3. How Does This Change Affect Users? What Should You Do?
- Not mandatory: Users can still use legacy addresses, but upgrading is encouraged.
- Compatibility issues: Early adopters might face wallet incompatibility. Use a trusted address conversion tool like cashaddr.bitcoincash.org to switch formats.
- Advocate for adoption: If your wallet/service hasn’t upgraded, encourage them to support CashAddr to reduce address-related errors.
👉 Explore trusted conversion tools here
4. Can Legacy Addresses Still Be Used?
Technically yes, but upgrading is strongly recommended.
- Security: New addresses enhance safety.
- UX: Uniform formats improve usability.
5. Can I Send Funds Between Legacy and CashAddr Addresses?
Yes. The format is just an encoding layer—like changing "clothes" for the same underlying public key hash (pubkeyHash). Transactions are seamless.
6. Can We Start Using CashAddr Immediately?
Absolutely. Wallets supporting the new format will allow instant usage.
7. What If My Wallet Rejects the New Address?
- Cause: Unupgraded wallets lack CashAddr support.
Solution: Convert the address using tools like:
- cashaddr.bitcoincash.org
- Electron Cash 3.1
⚠️ Warning: Only use trusted tools to avoid fake addresses and asset loss.
8. Is There a One-to-One Mapping Between Legacy and CashAddr?
Yes. Each legacy address maps to one unique CashAddr, and vice versa. Both versions share the same private/public keys and are interchangeable.
9. What Happens If I Send BCH to a CashAddr, but the Recipient’s Wallet Doesn’t Support It?
No issue. Funds will appear in their legacy address (same keys, different encoding).
10. Why Did Bitcoin Cash Create a New Address Format?
- Uniqueness: BCH deserves a distinct format to avoid confusion with BTC.
- Error reduction: Unique addresses minimize user mistakes (e.g., sending BCH to BTC addresses).
11. What Are the Benefits of CashAddr?
- Case-insensitive: Easier to write/share.
- Future-proof: Scalable for upcoming BCH features.
12. Technical Implications of CashAddr
- No blockchain change: Transactions function identically; only the user-facing display differs.
- Same mechanics: Funds are still locked/unlocked via cryptographic keys.
13. Is This a Protocol Change or Fork?
No. It’s purely a format update—not a hard/soft fork.
14. Do Private/Public Keys Change?
No. Keys remain unchanged.
15. Are There Official CashAddr Rules for Developers?
Yes. Refer to Bitcoin ABC’s official documentation for standards.
👉 Learn more about developer guidelines
FAQs
Q1: Is CashAddr mandatory for all BCH transactions?
A: No, but upgrading ensures better security and compatibility.
Q2: How do I convert my legacy address to CashAddr?
A: Use trusted tools like cashaddr.bitcoincash.org.
Q3: Will exchanges support CashAddr immediately?
A: Check with your exchange; most will roll out support gradually.
Q4: Can I reuse my old BCH paper wallet with CashAddr?
A: Yes—the keys are the same; only the displayed format changes.
Q5: What happens if I send BCH to a CashAddr without the prefix?
A: Most wallets will process it, but including the prefix is safer.
Q6: Does CashAddr improve transaction speed or fees?
A: No—it’s purely a visual/format upgrade.
Key Takeaways
- CashAddr enhances usability and security.
- Upgrade early to avoid compatibility hiccups.
- Always use trusted tools for address conversion.
For further details, visit Bitcoin ABC’s official site.