Citadel Dispatch CD183: NVK - COINKITE AND COLDCARD
Nov 11, 2025
NVK, co-founder of Coinkite and creator of the Coldcard wallet, dives into the fascinating world of secure Bitcoin storage. He discusses the growth of Coldcard's user base and the need for adaptable security amidst changing threat models. NVK highlights the importance of ethical design, explaining why Coinkite eschews mobile apps in favor of interoperable wallets. Listeners will be intrigued by his insights on features like Key Teleport for encrypted sharing, duress PINs, and inheritance strategies, emphasizing a robust yet user-friendly approach to self-custody.
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Design For Global, Mobile Users
- Coldcard targets diverse global users, so designs must handle many threat models and living situations.
- NVK emphasizes supporting digital nomads, multi-residence use, and border-crossing realities in product design.
Avoid A Single-Vendor Phone App
- Avoid making a Coldcard phone app; keep at least two vendors between device and signing host.
- Use desktop wallets (Sparrow, Cove) as intermediaries to preserve trust boundaries when possible.
Use Push-TX For Faster Spending
- Use QR push-tx (NFC push) to simplify signing: scan the PSBT then tap phone to broadcast.
- Try Cove or Sparrow with Coldcard to remove SD-card hassle and speed spending workflows.