Ethereum Foundation Launches zkAPI on Mainnet Amid Debate Over Validator Rewards

The Ethereum Foundation has launched zkAPI on mainnet for private AI payments and other metered APIs. The system allows users to pay for services without exposing their identity.

To use a service, users first deposit ETH or USDC into a smart contract vault. They then create a zero-knowledge proof showing the request is backed by funds, without revealing which deposit pays for it.

EIP-8363, a proposal to burn validator rewards and limit staking rates, has been withdrawn from the Hegota upgrade plan. This move comes after opposition from Aave founder Stani Kulechov, ether.fi CEO Mike Silagadze, and Lido contributors.