> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hub.bsvblockchain.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hub.bsvblockchain.org/higher-learning/bsv-academy/bsv-enterprise/about-bsv-blockchain/safe-instant-transactions-at-a-predictably-low-cost/payment-channels.md). # Payment Channels Another feature of BSV is the ability for users to leverage payment channels. A payment channel is a transaction that is valid, but will not be accepted into a block until some future time and date. In the intervening period, the parties to the transaction have the freedom to publish new updates which change aspects of its contents such as data packets being shared, amounts being paid and much more, enabling innovative and highly compelling digital services to be managed within the transactions themselves. Payment channels are a ground-breaking new technology, only supported by the BSV network. By leveraging the capabilities of payments channels on BSV, enterprises will be able to offer much more responsive arrangements to customers. For example, pay per second streaming content and VoIP communications can be built right into the payment system, allowing revenue to be captured during services provision without zero reliance on third parties. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://hub.bsvblockchain.org/higher-learning/bsv-academy/bsv-enterprise/about-bsv-blockchain/safe-instant-transactions-at-a-predictably-low-cost/payment-channels.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.