Ethereum Institutional has announced its support for EIP-8198, a proposal developed by the research lab Ethlabs. The initiative aims to reduce the Ethereum slot time from 12 seconds to 10 seconds. This change is planned as part of the Hegotá upgrade, which is currently scheduled for 2027.
The proposal, titled Quick Slots, involves a one-time client refactor to parameterize slot timing. By moving away from hardcoded intervals, the network will gain the ability to adjust block times through future governance proposals. This approach is intended to facilitate incremental speed improvements without requiring additional hard forks.
According to the proposal, reducing the block time by 2 seconds narrows the risk window for market makers by approximately 17%. This adjustment is expected to result in tighter spreads and improved execution for traders. Supporters also note that the change could enhance censorship resistance when used alongside FOCIL mechanisms.
Ethlabs, which launched on June 22, 2026, is backed by Ethereum co-founder Joe Lubin and includes former Ethereum Foundation researchers. Feedback from roughly 20 ecosystem participants, including Lido and Ondo, indicates broad support for the plan, with no significant concerns reported regarding decentralization or validator participation.
