Zcash Activates NU7 on Public Testnet, Opening a Trial Run for 25-Second Blocks
By Unchained
AI summary of the source article
Zcash has launched its NU7 network upgrade on its public testnet, reducing target block times to 25 seconds from 75 seconds. The foundation stated the change addresses delays at points of sale, exchange deposits, and cross-chain bridges, with block rewards adjusted so daily ZEC issuance remains unchanged. NU7 directs 60% of transaction fees to a Network Sustainability Mechanism reserve, caps shielded activity per block to boost Orchard throughput, and deactivates v4 transactions, effectively suspending the original Sprout shielded pool. Developers plan to evaluate testnet results on Oct. 20 to confirm the planned Nov. 5 mainnet activation date.
Why it matters
The upgrade reduces confirmation times from 75 to 25 seconds, aiming to improve Zcash's viability for point-of-sale payments, exchange deposits, and cross-chain bridges without increasing daily coin issuance.
Key facts
- NU7 cuts Zcash's target block time to 25 seconds from 75 seconds while adjusting rewards to keep daily ZEC issuance unchanged.
- The upgrade allocates 60% of transaction fees to the Network Sustainability Mechanism reserve, leaving miners with 40%.
- Developers will decide on mainnet activation on Oct. 20, with a target mainnet date of Nov. 5.