The Zcash network is preparing for the NU7 upgrade, which aims to reduce block times from 75 seconds to 25 seconds. Developers have scheduled the testnet activation for October 6, with a final decision on the mainnet launch set for October 20 following a performance review.
The mainnet activation is targeted for November 5. This upgrade includes the integration of the Network Sustainability Mechanism, which will maintain the existing halving schedule. Reintroduction of previously removed supply is planned to begin in February 2031.
The NU7 update will disable version 4 transactions. While the upgrade is not expected to introduce new transaction formats or significantly impact wallets, developers noted that full nodes, indexers, and block explorers may require technical adjustments.
The decision follows a community vote where 99.9% of ZEC-weighted participants supported the faster block interval. Additionally, 98.9% of voters backed the preservation of the current halving schedule. The announcement coincided with a 20% price increase for ZEC over a 24-hour period.
