A new open-source wallet is raising the bar for long-term Bitcoin storage, enforcing hardware devices for security while benefiting from OpenSats funding.
Bitcoin-Safe, a Bitcoin savings wallet focused on multisignature security, has officially launched with version 1.5.0, backed by a one-year OpenSats grant awarded in March 2025. Unlike most desktop wallets, Bitcoin-Safe mandates the use of hardware wallets for mainnet operations, a move aimed at minimizing risks for individuals, families, and businesses safeguarding their BTC over the long term.
With gold-standard security practices and a redesigned interface, the launch highlights growing demand for robust custody solutions at a time when self-sovereignty and trustless storage are central to Bitcoin adoption.
Development Backed by OpenSats
Bitcoin-Safe has been in development for more than two years under the leadership of Andreas Griffin. The OpenSats grant, which runs through March 2026, provides dedicated funding to refine its hardware-first architecture and simplify complex multisig setups.
“I started over two and a half years ago with this wallet and I had two goals: to make multisig easier and to not need to rely on Electrum servers,” Griffin said.
The wallet is built on the Bitcoin Dev Kit (BDK), with open-source code available on GitHub. Installable clients can be downloaded for free at bitcoin-safe.org, with support across Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Hardware-First Security
Whereas many wallets allow users to rely on software seeds, Bitcoin-Safe enforces hardware wallet integration, supporting QR, USB, and SD card connectivity with major devices. “For savings, there is just no way around a hardware wallet,” Griffin explained, framing the design as a safeguard against common “foot guns”—features that can cause users to compromise their own funds.
The multisig wizard creates a step-by-step setup process, complete with wallet descriptors and PDF backups. Verification steps for both sending and receiving ensure that configurations are correct before storing significant sums.
Usability and New Features
Version 1.5.0 introduces a redesigned user experience developed in collaboration with designer @deSign-r. Enhancements include a sidebar for managing multiple wallets, improved transaction views, and mempool visualizations displaying block and fee data.
Other upgrades improve accessibility, with clearer error messages, tooltips, and keyboard shortcuts. Bitcoin-Safe also integrates real-time fiat conversion across 123 currencies, alongside optional gold and silver value tracking. Notifications for mempool activity give users insight into transaction propagation, while multiple wallets can be unlocked with a single encryption password.
Nostr integration further enhances usability, enabling encrypted synchronization of labels across devices and one-click sharing of partially signed Bitcoin transactions (PSBTs).
Privacy and Future Development
Beyond security, Bitcoin-Safe emphasizes privacy. Users can categorize coins—for example, separating KYC-linked funds from privately sourced coins—to prevent accidental linkage in transactions.
Looking ahead, Griffin plans to replace Electrum server reliance with compact block filters, allowing users to fetch blockchain data directly from Bitcoin Core nodes. This step would enhance privacy and reduce external dependencies.
A Growing Ecosystem of Secure Storage
The launch of Bitcoin-Safe reflects a broader trend in the Bitcoin ecosystem: stronger demand for non-custodial, open-source, and auditable solutions. With institutional interest in Bitcoin custody rising alongside retail adoption, wallets that enforce hardware security could appeal to both newcomers and advanced users seeking to minimize counterparty and operational risk.
As the OpenSats-backed project continues development through 2026, its success may hinge on balancing robust security with usability. If it succeeds, Bitcoin-Safe could play a key role in shaping how long-term holders store their wealth in the coming cycle.
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