Here we track the progress of the leading builders within the ZK-Ethereum ecosystem, documenting recent significant releases, technical breakthroughs and general updates.
Ethereum researcher @drakefjustin recently revealed his Beam Chain proposal, which aims to revamp Ethereum’s consensus layer, introducing ZKPs and post-quantum cryptography to enhance decentralization, efficiency, and security. Unveiled at Devcon Bangkok, the plan includes faster block finality, reduced staking requirements from 32 ETH to 1 ETH, and modular off-chain zkVM integrations to prevent technology lock-in. Critics argue the five-year timeline is too slow for Ethereum’s competitive landscape, but Drake emphasizes careful testing and global decentralization.
For more information on the Beam Chain proposal and the broader context in which it fits, see the recently released @HouseofZK Podcast episode with Justin: https://x.com/HouseofZK/status/1863983934004220300
Taiko announced an upgrade to its mainnet by integrating ZKPs, enhancing its multi-proof rollup system alongside existing TEE proofs. This move, supported by zkVMs from Succinct and RISC Zero, aims to bolster security and scalability. Initially, 3% of blocks proposed by Taiko Beats will require ZKPs, with plans to fully transition to ZK-Rollup by 2025:
https://taiko.mirror.xyz/4c6VNhjKLHOMaNKRryyKHkiHcWx7caRax_mC0jTr-sY
Starknet's v0.13.3 update is now live, making Blob gas 5x cheaper on the mainnet. It compresses state differences for lower L1 data costs, enhancing scalability and reducing fees. No action needed from users, but node operators should update for compatibility:
https://community.starknet.io/t/starknet-v0-13-3/115053/1
This article introduces DeData Networks, which allow users to monetize their personal data privately and securely. A key point, zkTLS, enables the verification of web2 data without exposing it, facilitating user incentives in crypto ecosystems. Driven by AI's demand for specialized data, DeData networks could transform how personal data is valued, used, and shared, potentially creating new markets and UX in both passive and active network models:
https://zksync.mirror.xyz/woUfmmWgWKRITlaeihVTu-3okq7uTgIGl9-vLXBAyeU
ZKsync also introduced Smart Sign-On, a developer toolkit that simplifies Web3 onboarding with a Web2-like experience. It allows wallet-free logins using biometrics like FaceID, eliminates repeated transaction approvals, and offers session-based access. Built on the ERC-7579 standard, it supports modular smart accounts, passkey authentication, and session keys for smooth user interaction. Developers can integrate SSO with a few lines of code, enhancing user retention and security: https://zksync.mirror.xyz/XxZXs957Wf3PzsxuDR2LjR2FcqT0e6HpLcCdfsMKKyY
The Alpha Testnet v5 of Polygon Miden, a zkVM-based Rollup, was released, allowing for custom account components, enabling the creation of tailored smart contracts. It also introduces foreign procedure invocation for account composability and delegated proving for users needing assistance with ZK proofs. Additionally, transactions can now have recency conditions, ensuring they expire if not included timely:
https://polygon.technology/blog/polygon-miden-alpha-testnet-v5-is-live
Noir has announced the Noir 1.0 pre-release that transforms ZK development with intuitive features and robust tooling. Offering a rich type system, advanced cryptographic libraries, and modern programming structures like recursive proofs and metaprogramming, Noir makes ZK circuit design seamless. Its development environment includes an integrated debugger, package management via Nargo, and cross-platform support for JavaScript, Rust, and more. Compatible with major proving systems like Plonky2 and Halo2, Noir empowers developers to build efficient ZK apps and streamlining workflows:
https://aztec.network/blog/the-future-of-zk-development-is-here-announcing-the-noir-1-0-pre-release
Scroll has launched the ZK Talent Badge, enabling developers to showcase contributions to ZK tech in rollups, privacy, and infrastructure. This onchain badge supports bias-free hiring by focusing on skills, not identities, as part of Scroll’s broader onchain résumé initiative:
https://scroll.io/blog/supporting-developers-with-the-zk-talent-badge
Kakarot is shifting focus from deploying on @Starknet to building a powerful EVM proving engine, launching Q1 2025. This strategic move aims to enhance blockchain scalability, efficiency, and interoperability, supporting rollups and sidechains with ZKP tech for greater performance:
https://x.com/KakarotZkEvm/status/1863610420851863876
Linea has announced the Alpha v4.0 upgrade, set for December 16, introduceing state reconstruction, granular role management, and gas optimizations. Key changes include improved contract efficiency, enhanced protocol security, and new fallback mechanisms, all aimed at boosting the network's resilience and operational performance:
https://x.com/LineaBuild/status/1866224452553306367
