Ethereum is entering another stage of development. On May 7, the network is expecting one of the most anticipated updates in recent times — Pectra. It combines the technical developments of two major initiatives: Prague and Electra.
Ethereum is experiencing another growth phase. To prevent the network from becoming overwhelmed, developers are launching the Pectra update. It aims to simplify interaction between the execution and consensus layers. The goal remains the same as always: to make everything work faster and more reliably.
Why does Ethereum need updates?
Ethereum is constantly changing something; otherwise, it won't survive. The network updates through EIPs. These are proposals that improve the code and logic of operation. They eliminate problem areas, add necessary functions, and maintain the pace in the race with other blockchains. While someone is just entering the market, Ethereum is already adapting.
Previously, Ethereum underwent significant upgrades. The transition from Proof of Work to Proof of Stake in the The Merge update (2022) and the reduction of transaction costs in Dencun (2024) laid the foundation for further steps. Pectra continues this line, but with even more radical changes.
What's new in the Pectra update?
Smart accounts and account abstraction
One of the most powerful innovations in Pectra is the introduction of smart accounts. Now users will be able to utilize advanced features that were previously only available to smart contracts. Thanks to EIP-7702, regular wallets will be able to temporarily function as smart contracts. This will allow multiple actions to be combined into a single transaction, set up automated scenarios, and even pay fees with any tokens. Ethereum will become significantly more user-friendly and flexible.
Improving validator efficiency
With EIP-7251, the staking limit for a single validator increases from 32 to 2,048 ETH. This means that fewer validators will be needed to maintain the network. As a result, the load on the system decreases, the process of reaching consensus is simplified, and the overall efficiency of the network increases. At the same time, decentralization is preserved.
Fast and secure launch of new validators
Another important innovation is the transfer of validator deposit processing directly into the consensus layer of the network (EIP-6110). This step reduces risks associated with external solutions and speeds up the inclusion of new validators into operation.
Lower fees and smart data management
Ethereum aims to make Layer 2 networks cheaper and more resilient. The update involves two proposals, EIP-7691 and EIP-7742. They relate to blobs, which are additional space for data transmission. This element is particularly important for rollup networks. The essence of the changes is that the volume of this data can now be increased depending on the load. This will help avoid overloads and keep fees at an acceptable level, even when network activity surges.
