Ark is a layer-two protocol for Bitcoin that uses shared, periodically refreshed off-chain outputs to let users transact cheaply and privately while retaining the ability to settle on the base chain.
Semantic Classification
Content
- Ark aggregates many users’ funds into shared virtual outputs managed by a service provider, allowing transfers off-chain with periodic on-chain settlement. Users keep a unilateral exit path so they can reclaim funds without trusting the provider indefinitely.
- The design targets cheaper, more private payments on Bitcoin without the channel liquidity management of payment channels. It sits alongside other scaling and payment approaches in the broader payment network space.