Starknet has launched strkBTC, a wrapped Bitcoin asset on its Layer 2 network, designed to enhance privacy using zero-knowledge cryptography. Announced on May 12, 2026, strkBTC aims to protect users' balance and transaction history from public view, addressing privacy concerns inherent in Bitcoin's pseudonymous nature. By utilizing ZK-STARKs, strkBTC allows transactions to be verified without revealing details such as transaction amounts or participant identities. Built on the new STRK20 protocol, strkBTC integrates "shielded balances" directly into its framework, offering a more seamless privacy solution than traditional add-ons. Users can bridge native BTC to Starknet, store strkBTC in compatible wallets, and choose to shield their balances for use in DeFi applications, enhancing privacy without sacrificing functionality.