Bitmap Theory: A New Proposal for a Bitcoin Metaverse?

Ordinal Labs
2 min readJun 19, 2023
Visualisation of Block 780000

Note: Bitmap Theory is a proposal originally put forward by:
Twitter @blockamoto

In the rapidly evolving digital sphere, the concept of a metaverse has been explored but is still currently out of reach. Among various proposals, the Bitmap Theory emerges as a novel open-source standard leveraging the Bitcoin blockchain. While it is still in its early stages, it presents an interesting approach to transforming Bitcoin blocks into integral parts of a metaverse.

Introducing Bitmap Theory

Bitmap Theory seeks to offer a method for individuals to claim ownership of Bitcoin Blocks. It utilizes Ordinals and Bitmap theories to permit the inscription of ownership onto a Satoshi, a process that is decentralized. As such, it suggests the potential for Bitcoin blocks to become components of the metaverse.

Making Blocks Integral

The proposal suggests that with Bitmap, any block on the Bitcoin blockchain can be inscribed and subsequently transformed into a component of the metaverse. Theoretically, platforms can parse this block data into a 3D format, granting building rights to block owners. This could open up new possibilities for open-source development, allowing block owners to inscribe transactions as parcels, effectively fractionating a block, thereby allowing wider community involvement.

Historical Significance

The proposal also introduces the concept of ‘Satoshi blocks,’ those mined by Satoshi Nakamoto in the infancy of Bitcoin. These blocks, according to the theory, bear a significant historical value, offering block owners a sense of holding a unique piece of Bitcoin’s history.

Towards a Bitmap Standard

The proponents of Bitmap envision a progression beyond the present. They propose that initial block sales proceeds be reinvested in developing advanced tools based on the Bitmap standard. This, they suggest, could lay the groundwork for a digital realm built upon these distinctive digital spaces. The plan includes the open-source development of the standard, consensus-building, and collaboration with platforms open to this standard.

However, these plans remain in their preliminary stages. The viability of the Bitmap standard depends heavily on the competence of the development team and the attainment of social consensus.

Challenges Ahead

While any new standard carries potential risks and challenges, such as the technical feasibility of inscribing ownership onto Bitcoin blocks, and the need for platforms to integrate this new standard into their existing frameworks, these obstacles are not insurmountable.

The Bitmap Theory, despite its infancy, invites those interested in the development of a Bitcoin Metaverse to contribute to its evolution. As we continue to study this promising proposal, it’s crucial to approach it with an informed, critical, and open mindset. The journey of the Bitmap theory, with its inherent challenges and potential for a novel approach to the metaverse, will be intriguing to follow.

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Ordinal Labs

Attempting to simplify the latest innovations within the Bitcoin and Ordinal space.