Privacy Focused Router Running Bitcoin Node

Taiwanese electronics manufacturer HTC has announced a new blockchain router with a focus on privacy, which allows users to run a full Bitcoin node. This router can also relay transactions independently. It also supports email service ProtonMail, web browser Brave and the decentralized VPN service Incognito.

HTC has named the device Exodus 5G Hub, sharing the same name as the company's blockchain phones. The device will release this Spring.

"Owning your keys, owning your data, owning your privacy. Exodus is the shield against the onslaught of big tech and its assault on the privacy of your home. By using the Exodus 5G Hub, you have more control and ownership of your data than ever before.”

Phil Chen, Decentralized Chief Officer of HTC - press release

The router needs to improve data privacy in the home space. As a result HTC wants to use this router to challenge the dominance of Alexa, Google Nest, and other smart devices. Instead of using software-backed encryption, the Exodus 5G Hub has hardware-based encryption.

This hardware encryption is done through HTC own Zion Vault, which was also includes in the Exodus blockchain phones. Key features of the Zion Vault include the ability to run a full Bitcoin node, social key recovery in case someone loses their device, and an all-in-one private vault that allows users to view their BTC, ETH, BNB, LTC, XLM and other popular ERC-20 and ERC-721 tokens.

Exodus smartphones

In October 2019 HTC announced the Exodus 1S, which is a cheaper alternative to the Exodus 1. This was the first phone that’s capable of running a full Bitcoin node. Integrated Web 3.0 software allows users to install decentralized applications like the Kyber crypto exchange, game-oriented Decentraland marketplace or borrowing and lending tool Compound.

To run a full node for the Bitcoin network, a micro SD card is needed to store the entire ledger. Currently the Bitcoin network requires approximately 260GB, and it grows with an estimated 60GB per year. The minimum requirement to run a node would be a 400GB micro SD card. The card is obviously not included, and would add another 60-70 euro.