The Avalanche network has implemented the Helicon upgrade, deployed via AvalancheGo v1.15.0 on September 22, 2026. This update integrates six community proposals to enhance network performance and modify staking mechanics.
A key component is the ACP-194 proposal, which introduces Continuous Execution. By decoupling consensus from transaction execution on the C-Chain, the network has doubled its per-block capacity and enabled asynchronous processing.
The upgrade also introduces a dynamic gas pricing model under ACP-283, which is now managed by validators. Early data indicates a 100-fold shift in the effective gas fee floor, with the network operating below its gas target.
Staking rules for validators have been updated to reduce the minimum lock-up period from 14 days to 2 days. Additionally, the system now supports auto-renewing staking, while requiring a minimum of 90% uptime to qualify for rewards.
Prior to the mainnet launch, the Helicon upgrade was tested on the Fuji testnet starting July 28, 2026. Node operators were required to update to the latest protocol version, as certain legacy RPC methods were discontinued.
