#HCPP17 - Interview with Martijn Wismeijer (General Bytes) & Thomas Hunt

## Podcast Episode #HCPP17 - Interview with Martijn Wismeijer (General Bytes) & Thomas Hunt: Summary

1. Narrative Summary:

This episode of the Hacker Congress Podcast features an engaging interview with Martijn Wismeijer from General Bytes and Thomas Hunt, exploring the intersection of cryptocurrency, hardware wallets, and cutting-edge technology like NFC implants. The conversation began with a discussion of unique accessories for Bitcoin hardware wallets, like leather treasure cases, and quickly delved into General Bytes' innovative Bitcoin ATMs, known for their distinctive neon lighting. A significant portion of the discussion centered around biohacking and body modification, with Martin sharing his personal experience of having Bitcoin and Litecoin chips implanted, and recounting the challenges of securing large amounts of Bitcoin in the early days. The conversation then shifted to the practical applications of NFC technology, initially intended for ATM withdrawals, but ultimately adapted to card-based solutions due to adoption challenges. The guests explored the future possibilities of implanted technology, acknowledging concerns about privacy and societal acceptance while highlighting the potential for increased convenience and integration with everyday life, drawing parallels to features like Apple Watch unlocking Macs. The episode wrapped up with a shoutout to sponsor CryptoEaster and a glimpse into future podcast content.

2. Main Topics Discussed:

• General Bytes Bitcoin ATMs: Design, functionality, and security challenges.
• NFC Technology & Adoption: Initial attempts with implants, transition to card-based solutions, and future potential.
• Biohacking & Body Modification: Personal experiences with chip implants, societal acceptance, and the concept of body upgrades.
• Blockchain Applications Beyond Cryptocurrency: Verifying authenticity of physical goods.
• Hardware Wallet Accessories: Discussion of leather cases and other unique items.
• Security of Cryptocurrency: Protecting private keys and addressing concerns about scanning.
• Practical Applications of NFC: Unlocking alarms, opening doors, and potential for wider adoption.
• Cryptocurrency Compatibility: Focus on Bitcoin and Litecoin.
• Event & Location: Hacker Congress at Parallel and E. Polis.

3. Key Quotes:

• "Our bodies didn't change anything in the past thousands of years. While the world around us, they changed quite dramatically. By making a little bit of a body upgrade, we can be more compatible with modern life." - Martin Wismeijer
• "It's not so much ownership, like I was saying earlier, I got one. It's more about verification of not being a fake." - Martin Wismeijer
• "Oh, man, that's just how they thought big brother was going to be sold to us." - Guest (regarding the perception of implanted technology)
• "They called Martin Mr. Bitcoin." - Guest

4. People Mentioned:

• Martin Wismeijer: General Bytes (and nicknamed "Mr. Bitcoin")
• Thomas Hunt: Podcast Guest
• Theo: Podcast Host
• Joseph: Podcast Host
• Malchlafster: Biohacker, creator of magnets and implants
• Ton: (Left with a sex therapist, potential future appearance on an airplane with Bitcoin charts)
• War Text: Scheduled for a later show
• Daniel: Mentioned in relation to milk carton cards

5. Bitcoin Price:

• No specific Bitcoin prices were mentioned during the podcast.