At the moment if you visit bitcoin.org then you're recommended to download the full client. I think we all agree that at some point we need to start presenting users with something more like this:
To get started, download wallet apps A or B. If you'd like to contribute your computing resources to the Bitcoin network and have a fast computer with an unfiltered internet connection, download: - for desktop machines, Bitcoin-Qt - for servers, bitcoind Obviously not that exact wording. I personally feel it's a bit early for this, but it's true that users are being turned away by the fact that they're pointed to Bitcoin-Qt by default, so having some kind of roadmap or plan for changing that would be good. I think MultiBit is maturing into a client that I'd feel comfortable recommending to end users who take the fast-start path, though it still has a few serious lacks (encrypted wallets aren't released yet, bloom filters will help performance a lot, needs to catch up with some newer features). But there doesn't have to be a one true client. The alternative, I guess, is to make Bitcoin-Qt have an SPV mode. I'm not convinced this is the best use of time, but if somebody steps up to do it, that could also work. MultiBit has some unique features that are quite useful like integrating charting and exchange rate feeds. What does everyone think on this? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ LogMeIn Rescue: Anywhere, Anytime Remote support for IT. Free Trial Remotely access PCs and mobile devices and provide instant support Improve your efficiency, and focus on delivering more value-add services Discover what IT Professionals Know. Rescue delivers http://p.sf.net/sfu/logmein_12329d2d _______________________________________________ Bitcoin-development mailing list Bitcoin-development@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/bitcoin-development
