Published on: 2015-11-18T12:31:46+00:00
A proposed new URI scheme for blockchain exploration has been submitted by Marco Pontello. The purpose of this URI scheme is to enable users to handle all requests for details about blocks, transactions, and addresses on a blockchain explorer with their preferred tool, whether it be a web service or a local application. Currently, Bitcoin clients typically point to an arbitrary blockchain explorer when the user looks for transaction details, and sometimes resorting to cut-and-paste is necessary. The same happens with posts and messages that reference specific transactions or blocks, if they provide links at all.The proposed URI follows a simple form: "blockchain:" followed by the block or transaction ID. The proposal suggests that keeping it simple should be practical enough, and blockchain explorers can apply the same disambiguation rules they are already using to process the usual search box. From the perspective of a wallet developer or other tool that needs to show blockchain references, using this scheme means they can simply make it a blockchain link and be done with it without worrying about any specific blockchain explorer or providing a means for the user to select one.The proposal also discusses improving the syntax of blockchain URLs. Participants suggest different approaches, such as making the chain part optional or using the "authority" component of the URL to identify the chain. There is also discussion about allowing well-known chains to register names as alternatives to the hash syntax. The use of the genesis block hash as a method for identifying a reference to a transaction is proposed, along with the idea of using name constants as a simpler alternative.Overall, the goal of the proposal is to create a standard URI scheme for blockchain exploration that all explorers would understand. This would provide users with the convenience of using their preferred explorer and simplify the process for wallet developers and other tools that need to show blockchain references.
Updated on: 2023-08-01T15:44:07.597614+00:00