Ledger, a producer of smartcard bitcoin hardware wallets, introduces its blockchain-based operating system BOLOS. It allows running applications isolated from each other and offers improved security.

The Blockchain Open Ledger Operating System, or BOLOS, enables customers to build source code portable native applications on top of a secure core. Created apps can only be run within their own memory regions without overlapping or interference with each other. The operating system works in supervisor mode while applications are only given user mode access.

The system is claimed to strengthen the protection of the operating core from possible hacker attacks.

“Users can review and install third party applications that will add new privacy features on top of their own shared set of cryptographic material, without exposing that material”, the official press release reads.

The producer indicates that newly introduced operating system will transform Ledger bitcoin hardware wallets into personal security devices.

The first native implementation of BOLOS will be applied to the hardware wallet Ledger Blue. In March, it will be released as a developer edition. For the general public, the wallet is expected to become available in the second quarter of 2016. The suggested retail price of one device is $179.

Ledger promises to provide developers with more information on how BOLOS can be used. In the coming weeks, additional reviews and technical guides are to be published.

Elena Platonova