Zcash NU7 Upgrade Enters Testnet Phase Ahead of November Launch
Zcash has taken a significant step forward with its upcoming NU7 network upgrade, activating it on the testnet ahead of its planned mainnet rollout in November. The upgrade went live on the testnet on Oct. 4 at 18:21:45 UTC, marking the beginning of live testing for the planned protocol changes.
NU7 aims to make several key adjustments to the Zcash network, including reducing the target block spacing from 75 seconds to 25 seconds. The upgrade also introduces a Network Sustainability Mechanism, which will redirect a portion of transaction fees into future block rewards. Additionally, version 4 transactions will be disabled, which could leave ZEC held in the legacy Sprout shielded pool unspendable unless users move the funds before the full activation.
The Zcash Foundation encouraged testnet operators to use the release candidate to test NU7 under real conditions. This phase allows developers to assess the upgrade thoroughly before deciding whether to proceed with mainnet activation. A final decision on mainnet activation and its activation height is scheduled for Oct. 20, with the mainnet activation targeted for Nov. 5.
This development highlights Zcash's commitment to enhancing its network's efficiency and sustainability, as it prepares for one of its most significant upgrades to date.