On August 15, 2025, fintech company Block, led by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, announced the Proto Rig, a revolutionary modular system for bitcoin mining designed for a lifespan of ten years or more. Unlike traditional mining equipment, which typically lasts three to five years, the modular design of the Proto Rig allows for the updating of individual hash boards as technology evolves. This approach reduces upgrade costs by up to 20% per upgrade cycle, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for bitcoin miners.
Along with the Proto Rig, the company introduced Proto Fleet, an open-source platform for managing large-scale mining operations. This platform enhances operational efficiency and aligns with Block's strategy of decentralizing and democratizing bitcoin mining. The open approach has received positive feedback from industry experts. Komodo Platform CTO Kadan Stadelmann noted that it "reflects the original decentralized spirit of bitcoin."
The announcement of the Proto Rig follows recent Block achievements in the mining field. In April 2024, the company developed a 3-nanometer chip for bitcoin mining, demonstrating a commitment to cutting-edge technology. Additionally, Block signed a supply agreement with Core Scientific, one of the largest mining operators, strengthening its industry position. These steps underscore the company's strategic expansion in the highly competitive and resource-intensive field.
Bitcoin mining remains a costly industry: professional equipment costs more than $10,000, excluding significant electricity costs. Currently, mining companies extract bitcoins worth more than $50 million daily, but profitability depends on factors such as electricity costs, mining complexity, and equipment efficiency. Block's Proto Rig addresses these challenges by offering a long-lasting modular solution that reduces dependency on frequent equipment replacement, traditionally controlled by manufacturers like Bitmain. According to Stadelmann, the increased lifespan and enhanced energy efficiency of the Proto Rig can make mining more accessible and environmentally friendly.
The initial industry reaction to the Proto Rig is largely positive. Experts view the modular design and open-source approach as steps toward greater decentralization in bitcoin mining. The ability to upgrade individual components instead of fully replacing systems helps reduce costs and environmental impact, challenging the dominance of traditional equipment manufacturers. In the ongoing development of the industry, Block's innovations may set a new standard for efficiency and durability in bitcoin mining infrastructure.