Electrum, an open-source bitcoin wallet, today announced the release of Electrum 4.6.0, a landmark update introducing support for decentralized submarine swaps via Nostr, Lightning Network anchor channels, and a revamped third-party plugin ecosystem. The release marks a significant leap forward in self-custody, privacy, and interoperability within the bitcoin ecosystem.
Key Innovations in Electrum 4.6.0
1. Nostr-Powered Submarine Swaps
Electrum now integrates Nostr (Notes and Other Stuff Transmitted by Relays) to enable decentralized, non-custodial atomic swaps. Users can discover swap providers directly through Nostr relays, eliminating reliance on centralized servers or public Lightning channels. This peer-to-peer system uses ephemeral keys for client privacy while allowing providers to advertise liquidity and fees trustlessly. 
2. Anchor Channels for Lightning Network
The update makes anchor commitments the default for new Lightning channels, enhancing capital efficiency. However, this requires accessible on-chain UTXOs for sweeping operations, restricting Lightning functionality in hardware or watch-only wallets without local keys. Existing channels remain unaffected.
3. Third-Party Plugin Ecosystem
Plugins can now be installed via ZIP files on desktop binaries (Windows/macOS/Linux). A mandatory “plugin authorization password” – distinct from wallet passwords – prevents malware installations. Administrator permissions are required to set up this password, adding enterprise-grade security.
4. Privacy & Security Upgrades
- Screenshot Protection: Windows users get black rectangles over Electrum windows in screenshots (inspired by Windows Recall), preventing private key leaks.
- Memory Access Restrictions: Linux systems now enforce stricter process memory access controls.
- Dust Attack Mitigation: New options avoid spending from used addresses to deter surveillance.
5. Desktop & Mobile Enhancements
- Qt GUI migrated to Qt6 with improved transaction batching, Lightning address contacts, and wallet unlocking states.
- Android overhaul: New QR scanner, notification permissions, and screen brightness controls.
- CLI improvements: Better help documentation and new commands like
wait_for_syncandhold_invoicemanagement.
Developer & Infrastructure Updates
- Python 3.10 Required: Drops support for Python 3.8/3.9.
- New Dependencies:
electrum-aionostr(forked for Nostr support) andelectrum-ecc(standalone libsecp256k1 bindings). - Hardware Compatibility: Ledger “Flex” added; “HW.1” and “Nano” devices discontinued.
- Build Requirements: Windows 10 (1809+), macOS 11+, and Linux glibc 2.31+.
Availability
Electrum 4.6.0 is available for download. Full release notes detail additional fixes for Lightning, hardware wallets, and cross-platform optimizations.
About Electrum
Electrum is a lightweight bitcoin wallet serving millions of users with its focus on speed, security, and simplicity. As a non-custodial open-source project, it remains a cornerstone of bitcoin’s infrastructure.
Media Contact
For interviews or technical queries, contact the Electrum team via GitHub or community forums.
Release notes: https://github.com/spesmilo/electrum/blob/master/RELEASE-NOTES
