Bitcoin Faucet Revival: Block Confirms April 6 Launch Date

Bitcoin faucet services are returning, with Jack Dorsey’s Block confirming Monday, April 6, as the official launch date. The program will let users collect satoshis for free, closely reflecting the original model introduced in 2010.

Block currently holds 8,883 BTC, valued at around $594 million, on its balance sheet. The company said the revival aligns with its ongoing focus on Bitcoin education and broader adoption.

The origins and evolution of Bitcoin faucets

The first Bitcoin faucet launched in 2010, created by developer Gavin Andresen. The stated aim was to educate newcomers and promote adoption of the emerging digital currency.

At the time, each Bitcoin address could claim 5 BTC by solving a basic CAPTCHA. Those coins would be worth more than $330,000 in today’s market if early recipients had held them.

The original faucet operated for about two years before shutting down in 2012. Over that period, it distributed roughly 19,700 BTC to participants worldwide.

Since then, other faucets have continued the concept across different platforms, and many now support multiple cryptocurrencies. Some rely on advertising revenue and “microwallets” to deliver small rewards, while reputable services typically aim to provide a beginner-friendly entry point—though scam faucets remain a risk.

Block’s faucet return and what it means for onboarding

Block’s Bitcoin-focused account recently confirmed the concept’s return with a post stating: “The bitcoin faucet is back. 04.06.26.” The date corresponds to the Monday launch schedule.

Block’s approach is positioned as distinct due to its institutional resources and Bitcoin-only focus. Its BTC balance sheet is described as providing a foundation for sustaining the program.

By lowering the entry barrier for newcomers, the launch is framed as a continuation of the educational mission that Andresen began more than 15 years ago.

Block’s internal shift and expanding Bitcoin product ecosystem

Block has also been reshaping its operations, cutting more than 4,000 jobs—about 40% of its total workforce. Dorsey described the move as necessary to refocus on core Bitcoin initiatives.

The company says it now relies on AI-driven development workflows to maintain output with leaner teams, including automated agents supporting reduced engineering staff across multiple product lines.

Dorsey and board director Roelof Botha back what they describe as a “mini-AGI” vision for Block, arguing that AI can replace several layers of traditional corporate coordination. Block says smaller, focused teams can operate more efficiently than larger conventional organizations, and that this internal model is intended as a competitive advantage.

Block’s product line extends beyond Cash App’s peer-to-peer payments. It includes Bitkey, a self-custody hardware wallet for users who want direct control of their Bitcoin, and Proto, which offers Bitcoin mining systems for individuals looking to join the network.

The April 6 faucet launch is presented as part of this broader onboarding strategy: users who receive free satoshis may later explore Bitkey for storage, while others could consider Proto as a pathway into Bitcoin mining.