Bitcoin’s ECX Fork Is Coming: When It Hits and Who Gets Free Coins

Layertwo Labs, led by Bitcoin developer Paul Sztorc, is preparing a three‑phase hard‑fork that will create a new blockchain called ecash (ECX). The fork will copy Bitcoin’s transaction ledger at specific block heights and issue a 1:1 ECX balance to most Bitcoin addresses that control the private keys at each snapshot.

Launch timeline

The rollout consists of:

• Alpha phase: live‑fire rehearsal around block height 963648.
• Beta phase: scheduled for roughly September 20 at block height 967680, focusing on exchanges, wallets, miners and custodians.
• Mainnet: slated for October 31 near-protocol-near">near block height 973728, when permanent ECX balances will be created.

How ECX differs from Bitcoin

ECX will run its own network identifier, ports, mining difficulty and economic rules while using the same SHA‑256d algorithm as Bitcoin. The original BTC remains untouched; holders do not need to move or lock their coins. Only addresses that control private keys at the snapshot can claim ECX directly.

Drivechain vision

The project builds on Sztorc’s long‑standing drive‑chain proposals (BIP‑300 and BIP‑301). ECX will launch with seven specialized sidechains, including:

• Thunder – high‑throughput payments
• Zside – shielded transactions
• Bitnames – decentralized identity
• Bitassets – token issuance
• Photon – quantum‑resistant signatures
• Truthcoin – prediction markets
• Coinshift – cross‑chain trading

Impact on Satoshi‑related coins

Approximately 1.1 million early Bitcoin coins identified by the “Patoshi pattern” will be allocated on ECX: about 600 k remain with those addresses and roughly 500 k are redirected to early investors and development funding.

What holders need to do

To receive ECX, users must retain control of the private keys for their Bitcoin addresses at each snapshot. Those holding BTC on exchanges or custodial services will need to wait for those platforms to support the fork and distribute the new asset.

Future considerations

ECX’s success will depend on functional sidechains, stable software, miner participation and exchange listings. The asset is distinct from XEC, another cryptocurrency that also uses the “ecash” name.