The BitBox02 hardware wallet can generate an unlimited number of receive addresses for each account. To protect your privacy, the BitBoxApp always displays addresses that haven't been used in previous transactions. However, you might notice that the app shows only the next 20 unused addresses. This limitation is intentional and serves important purposes.

Why limit to 20 addresses?

Many Bitcoin wallets restrict the number of receive addresses shown to users at a time, primarily for two reasons:

1. Enhancing user protection

Using addresses that are deep within the wallet's address list can complicate recovery in different wallet software. Other wallets may not know how far to search for used addresses, potentially leading to incomplete recovery.

2. Reducing server load

Each time a wallet checks if an address contains any Bitcoin, it queries the connected Bitcoin node, consuming time and resources. By limiting the check to the next 20 unused addresses, syncing times are significantly improved.

How does this work in practice?

By default, the BitBoxApp displays the next 20 unused receive addresses. For example, if you use address number 10, the app will then show addresses 11 through 31, and so on. This approach is common among wallets and ensures compatibility when recovering your wallet with different hardware or software wallets.

Can I override this limit?

Yes, you can manually override the gap limit used in the BitBoxApp. However, this is recommended only for specific recovery purposes and if you are confident in what you're doing. More details you find here: How can I change the BitBoxApp gap limits?