Ethereum Wallets Supporting OP_RETURN: A Guide to Attaching on Desktop and Mobile Devices

As Bitcoin 2.0 applications become more popular, developers are looking for new ways to improve the user experience while keeping costs low. One popular technique is to use the
OP_RETURN

parameter in Ethereum wallets to attach data to transactions without exceeding the traditional 40-byte limit.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of OP_RETURN and look at the different options for supporting wallets on desktop and mobile devices.

What is OP_RETURN?

OP_RETURN (Open Transaction Reference) is a protocol introduced by the Ethereum Foundation that allows developers to create custom transaction data using the tx and vout parameters. This allows users to attach additional information, such as metadata or custom scripts, to their transactions without modifying the underlying blockchain code.

40 Byte Limit

As you mentioned, OP_RETURN transactions have a 40-byte attachment size limit. This is one reason why wallets must prioritize desktop and mobile support when deciding which option to use.

Desktop Wallets: The Verdict

For users who prefer a more traditional wallet experience or require more customization options, desktop wallets are often the better choice. Desktop wallets like MetaMask, MyEtherWallet (MEW), and Electrum offer solid features, including:

• Customizable transaction metadata

• Ability to include custom scripts via the script parameter

• Support for managing multiple accounts

Desktop wallet providers typically support both Windows and macOS versions.

Mobile Wallets: The Catch

While mobile wallets like Trust Wallet, Exodus, and Binance DEX offer a convenient environment, they often compromise on attachment size. If you prioritize including OP_RETURN data in your transactions, you may encounter limitations or restrictions on certain data types.

However, some mobile wallet providers have begun to address this issue by:

• Enabling smaller attachments (e.g. 10-20 bytes) via a third-party plugin

• Allowing users to create custom scripts via the script parameter

Keep in mind that these options may be limited or require additional configuration on your mobile device.

Conclusion

In summary, while OP_RETURN offers a unique way to include custom data in Ethereum transactions without exceeding the 40-byte limit, desktop wallets provide a more traditional environment with more customization options. However, mobile wallet support is improving, with some providers now offering smaller attachment sizes or additional scripting capabilities.

Before deciding which option best suits your needs, consider the following factors:

• Preferred wallet type (desktop or mobile)

• Type of data you want to attach (custom scripts or metadata)

• Any potential limitations or restrictions on attachment size

By considering these factors and exploring the different options, you can choose the most appropriate solution for your Ethereum wallet.