Re: [Taler] Questions re: Taler Project

[Christian Grothoff]

On 4/9/22 15:40, Jordan Howlett wrote:
> Hi, there. Jordan here.
> 
> I just came across Taler the other day (ashamed I have never heard of
> it!). I'm a long time fan of Bitcoin but I think what Taler is doing is
> a great compromise and has lots of potential.
> 
> I have a few questions which I would be super grateful if someone helped
> me out, and I apologize if they are answered somewhere. 
> 
> Also, if it's easier i'd love to jump on a call with someone and I am
> happy to compensate for your time :) Also, links to the docs are a fine
> answer, i'm going through but there is a lot to consume.
> 
> 1. Could one theoretically deploy this today with a fake token? Set up a
> fake exchange that just issues made up money?

Eh, you did see https://demo.taler.net/?

> 2. What is the major difference between this and Open Transactions?

Well, for starters, we're not implementing OTX but the Taler protocol,
which respects consumer privacy.

> 3. For microtransaction usage: Could you request a lump sum from the
> exchange and then spend that in smaller increments with the merchant? Or
> would each microtransaction be requested individually from the exchange?

You can spend smaller increments, or rather: spend a fraction and obtain
change for the remainder. For unlinkability, you do need talk to the
exchange to get unlinkable change.

> 4. What is the current status of wallet-to-wallet? Another question
> regarding that is - in wallet-to-wallet, would the receiver have to
> behave like a merchant in sense of the lack of privacy / taxation?

We're implementing it right now. The design calls for the receiver to be
again identified like a merchant, but of course if that is not required
in the jurisdiction where the exchange operates, you could disable it.

> I probably have a few more, going to keep digging in! Sorry for the
> blast of questions, but really cool project here, would love to help
> where I can!

Sure.

Happy hacking!

Christian