April 10, 2024

March 2024 SKALE Engineering Update: Network Release 2.3 and Increases In Bridge Speed

SKALE Network

In the latest developments from the SKALE engineering community, a series of updates have elevated the user and developer experience to new heights. Here's an overview of the key updates from March and their implications for the SKALE ecosystem.

Network Release 2.3: Improving ETH Compatibility, Solidity Support, and Validator Operations

SKALE's Network Release 2.3 introduces a range of features designed to enhance the network's alignment with Ethereum standards and improve its scalability.

Enhanced Ethereum Compatibility

Adjustments to the SKALE Chain API have been made to ensure full compatibility with Ethereum, especially within the JSON RPC API. Notable changes include:

- The `net_version` endpoint now adheres to Ethereum standards by returning the chain ID in decimal format.

- The `eth_estimateGas` function has been updated to accept a block number tag parameter, aligning with Ethereum's capabilities.

- Modifications in the `eth_syncing` response format aim to mirror Ethereum's style more closely.

- An issue related to setting the Content-Type HTTP header in responses has been resolved, enhancing compatibility with the `viem` library.

Scalability Enhancements for SKALE Chains

The update allows both archive and sync nodes to broadcast transactions directly to core SKALE Chain nodes, facilitating seamless operation of fully compatible nodes within customer infrastructures and streamlining transactions and calls.

Solidity 0.8.20 and Later Support

A compatibility issue with the `PUSH0` opcode has been addressed, enabling the deployment of contracts compiled with Solidity versions 0.8.20 and later on a SKALE Chain without complications.

Automatic IP Change Adaptation

A new feature that simplifies the process of updating all chains when a node's IP address changes has been introduced, enhancing network flexibility.

Oracle Response Verification

The capability for smart contracts on the SKALE Chain to verify oracle responses has been added, providing an additional layer of trust and authenticity to the returned data.

Interchain Messaging Agent (IMA) Bridge v2.1.0: Stability and Connectivity Upgrades

The Interchain Messaging Agent (IMA Bridge) has been upgraded to version 2.1.0, featuring significant improvements in stability and connectivity. Since the implementation of these updates, there have been notable improvements in transfer times, with SKALE Chain to SKALE Chain transfers now averaging 33.2 seconds and SKALE Chain to Ethereum Mainnet transfers averaging 23.2 seconds - a increase in transfer speeds of 561% and 10,976%, respectively.

Transition to TypeScript

The switch from JavaScript to TypeScript for the IMA Bridge has markedly increased the stability of s2s/m2s/s2m transfers.

Expanded Chain Connectivity

With the introduction of a new SKALE network browser component within the agent, the capability to connect a greater number of chains has been enhanced, surpassing previous limitations.\

SKALE Block Explorer 2.0: Redefining User Interaction with Blockchain Data

As Blockexplorer 2.0 nears completion, it is set to offer a revamped user interface that significantly improves usability and aesthetics.

Revamped User Interface

The new Block Explorer is designed with a focus on enhancing usability and aesthetics, making it easier for both technical and non-technical users to navigate and interpret blockchain data.

Enhanced Transaction Insights

The inclusion of internal transactions support, facilitated through debug_tracing methods, allows for a deeper understanding of the interactions within complex contracts, providing users with a comprehensive view of the underlying activities.

These updates underscore SKALE's continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of blockchain technology, delivering a more scalable, reliable, and user-friendly platform for its community. The SKALE ecosystem eagerly anticipates the benefits these enhancements will bring, as the network continues to evolve and onboard more users and developers.

About SKALE

SKALE is the world's fastest blockchain, designed for fast, secure, user-centric Ethereum scaling. SKALE chains offer zero gas fees to end-users and have advanced features such as AI/ML smart contracts, on-chain file storage, interchain messaging, zero-cost minting, and enhanced security features.

The SKALE Network enables developers to deploy their own EVM blockchain in minutes without sacrificing speed, security, or decentralization. Welcome to the SKALEverse.