The Crypto Coin Show Blockchain Interviews: Kevin Coutinho on Layer One X
Ashton Addison from The Crypto Coin Show welcomes Kevin Coutinho, Founder of Layer One X. The discussion dives into blockchain interoperability, security, quantum resistance, AI, and the innovative work happening at Layer One X.
Kevin expresses excitement for the interview, and Ashton highlights his interest in connecting blockchains beyond Ethereum to newer ecosystems.
What is Layer One X?
- Overview: Layer One X is a next-generation decentralized blockchain designed for cross-chain interoperability without relying on traditional bridges.
- Two-Phase Development:
- Phase 1: Built the L1X Core (EVM-compatible virtual machine) and XTO technology, a bridgeless infrastructure for cross-chain communication.
- Phase 2: Focus on quantum-resistant features, enabling secure cross-chain messaging and storage for dApps across multiple chains without requiring individual networks to adopt quantum resistance.
Kevin’s Journey into Blockchain
- Background: Started with computers at age 8, later founded Australia’s first blockchain-based rewards platform, listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.
- Inspiration: While building the rewards system on EOS, he noticed challenges with data onboarding and privacy, sparking his interest in interoperability.
- Academic Push: Pursued a PhD in blockchain interoperability and quantum computing at the University of Western Australia, leading to an 8-month effort crafting a 210-page white paper on the topic
The State of Blockchain Interoperability Without Layer One X
- Kevin coins the term “BRICK” to describe current challenges:
- B: Bridges are broken – Inefficient for complex logic and prone to hacks (60%+ of hacked value comes from bridges).
- R: Relayers and oracles – Introduce centralization risks due to third-party dependencies.
- I: Incompatible blockchains – Make true multi-chain execution difficult.
- C: Cost and complexity – Timing multi-chain adoption is tricky (too early = complex; too late = risky).
- K: Quantum threat – Existing cryptography is vulnerable, and few are addressing quantum-resistant interoperability.
How Layer 1X Solves These Problems
- Bridgeless Design: Uses Xtalk technology to listen to events across 35+ chains, verify data, and pass payloads directly to target contracts, skipping redundant bridge components.
- Benefits:
- Cuts cross-chain transaction fees by ~80%.
- Speeds up transactions by at least 2x.
- Enhances security by eliminating weak links like bridges.
- Security Edge: Relies on decentralized validators, keeps assets native to their chains, and reduces exposure time in transit.
Who Can Use Layer One X?
- Versatility: Works for any industry needing to move value or logic across chains (e.g., DeFi, NFTs).
- dApp Integration: Developers can use Xtalk without deploying on Layer 1X directly; it acts as a plug-and-play interoperability layer.
Quantum Resistance: A Looming Necessity
- Threat: NSA warns of quantum readiness by 2030. Quantum computing could crack RSA/ECC cryptography (used by Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.).
- Current Landscape:
- Protocols like Ethereum are exploring upgrades (e.g., “Splurge”).
- New quantum-resistant chains are emerging.
- Off-chain/on-chain solutions are in development.
- Layer One X Approach: Offers a plug-and-play quantum-resistant model for dApps and protocols, avoiding the need for core infrastructure changes.
AI’s Role in the Mix
- Quantum + AI: AI aids quantum computing by optimizing error correction and processing power (e.g., IBM and Google efforts).
- Blockchain Application: AI could preemptively manage assets during quantum threats (e.g., moving assets or triggering contracts if vulnerabilities are detected).
L1X Plans for 2025
- Achievements: Already supports 25+ projects, processed millions of cross-chain transactions, and serves 110,000+ users via l1xapp.com.
- Goals:
- Multi-chain asset issuance standard (e.g., ERC20 with built-in cross-chain features).
- Quantum-resistant paradigms (message passing, storage, rollups).
- Developer-friendly SDK for quantum-resistant, multi-chain apps.
How to Engage with L1X
- For Non-Developers: Visit l1xapp.com for a sleek Web3 UI to swap coins bridgelessly—even without connecting a wallet (free gas fees coming soon!).
- Stay Updated: Follow Layer One X on Twitter, Discord, or check the widget section on l1xapp.com for 24-hour updates.
Closing Thoughts
- Kevin’s insights highlight L1X’s mission to make blockchain transfers safer, faster, and quantum-ready while uniting ecosystems.
- Ashton looks forward to tracking L1X’s progress and invites Kevin back for future updates.