Simple Setup for SPHINCS+ Bitcoin-style Address (proof-of-concept)

This method is distinct because it does not rely on elliptic curve cryptography, which is traditionally used in generating Bitcoin addresses. Instead, it focuses on a purely hash-based approach, aligning with the anticipated needs for security in a post-quantum computing era.

Two programs have been developed as part of this proof-of-concept. The first program takes a 32-byte seed and produces a fixed 105-byte slice from a SPHINCS+ signature. The second program then processes this slice further, reducing it to a 20-byte payload using SHAKE256-based methods. This payload is then used to create two types of addresses: one following the standard Bitcoin address format (double-SHA256 + Base58Check) and another incorporating a "shake + pq-checksum" strategy (double-SHAKE256 + same Base58 format). Additionally, the system features a simple role-based derivation system, where Role 0 acts as the master and higher roles correspond to derived children, showing a straightforward method for deriving related addresses.

This work is hosted on a GitHub repository, which can be accessed here. The repository uses the official SPHINCS+ reference code and intentionally employs very small SPHINCS+ parameters. This choice supports the idea that after a significant Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) update, the parameters could easily be adjusted back to standard sizes with minimal changes needed in the underlying pipeline. This project serves both as a prototype and a discussion piece for potential hybrid use-cases in environments prior to quantum computing becoming mainstream.

There has been some confusion or misunderstanding regarding the purpose of creating these addresses, with inquiries about their practical usability given their current unspendable status. However, the primary intent appears to be demonstrating a possible future-proof technique for Bitcoin address generation in the face of evolving cryptographic challenges. This initiative seeks feedback and further questions to refine and possibly expand its application scope within the cryptocurrency development community.