Zcash developers have set their sights on November 5 for NU7’s mainnet activation. The upgrade would significantly shorten Zcash’s block interval. Developers plan to reduce block times from 75 seconds to 25 seconds.
The change would also retain the network’s existing halving schedule. However, developers will first test NU7 before finalizing the mainnet activation details.
The testnet rollout will begin on October 6, according to developer Sean Bowe. Developers will review network performance before making the final mainnet decision. They expect to confirm the activation height on October 20. Consequently, the testnet period will provide a key checkpoint for the upgrade.
Faster Blocks Bring Network Changes
NU7 would disable version 4 transactions as part of its broader network changes. It would also introduce the Network Sustainability Mechanism, or NSM. The selected NSM design keeps Zcash’s current halving schedule intact.
Additionally, the mechanism would begin restoring previously removed supply in February 2031. Hence, NU7 could change network economics without altering the planned halving rhythm.
Bowe said developers do not expect new transaction formats from NU7. Therefore, wallets should require limited changes during the transition. However, full nodes, indexers, and block explorers may need technical updates.
Zcash holders have also expressed strong support for the proposed changes. A recent ZEC-weighted vote showed overwhelming backing for faster blocks. The same vote strongly supported maintaining the existing halving schedule.
Significantly, the faster block proposal received 99.9% support. Meanwhile, 98.9% supported preserving the halving structure.
Besides improving transaction processing speed, the shorter interval could reshape network operating requirements. Moreover, developers will use testnet results before confirming the final mainnet schedule. The October milestones will therefore determine whether NU7 proceeds toward its November target.
Related: Who Should Decide Zcash’s Future: Tokenholders, Delegates, or Funders?
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