Aptos Labs Proposes Quantum-Ready Blockchain Upgrade with AIP-137

This initiative, known as AIP-137, was crafted by cryptography experts at Aptos Labs. Account owners can opt into post-quantum signatures in addition to the classic signature formats already available.

The proposed update focuses on adding SLH-DSA, a digital signature recognized under FIPS 205. If integrated, Aptos would be among the first functional blockchains to provide native support for post-quantum account protection.

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Offering the new signature method would not be mandatory. Users who are satisfied with their current setups that rely on established digital signatures can keep them unless they choose the upgraded option.

Cybersecurity experts have indicated that, while traditional cryptographic algorithms continue to protect against threats from standard computers, future quantum computers could bypass these protections and endanger existing signatures.

The Aptos development group pointed to the tech industry’s focus on quantum security, with companies like IBM and new post-quantum cryptography standards from the US National Institute of Standards and Technology driving the conversation forward.

With AIP-137, SLH-DSA would become an additional signature option, which grants account holders mixed cryptographic defenses without imposing changes across all users.

IBM has shared several updates on its quantum computing work at the company’s Quantum Developer Conference in New York. What did the company say? Read the full story.