The Coinbase-backed L2 solution Base announced its transition from the Optimism technology stack to its own unified architecture.
Currently, the code for key components, such as the sequencer, is distributed across different teams and repositories, complicating system maintenance. The new unified base/base solution, utilizing open components like Reth, aims to simplify and enhance the architecture’s efficiency.
Each network update will be released as a single official binary file Base. The project will remain open, with public specifications allowing the community to develop alternative clients.
According to developers, the transition will reduce reliance on third-party providers and expedite the implementation of new features. The team aims to execute six minor hard forks annually, up from the current three.
The deployment of the new architecture will occur in four stages. In the coming months, node operators will need to switch to the new Base client, through which all official updates will be released.
Ether.fi Card Moves to OP Mainnet
The cryptocurrency payment card Ether.fi Cash is migrating from the Scroll blockchain to the Optimism main network.
1/ Today, we announce our plan to move to @Optimism‘s OP Mainnet
70,000+ active cards, 300,000+ accounts, and $160M+ in TVL will migrate to the Superchain in the coming months, marking a long-term partnership to accelerate global onchain payments.
Learn more below ↓ pic.twitter.com/ayd11I4SAd
— ether.fi (@ether_fi) February 18, 2026
“In the coming months, around 70,000 active cards, 300,000 accounts, and user assets worth millions will transition to the Optimism ecosystem,” the developers stated.
Developed since 2024, the Ether.fi Cash project offers a non-custodial method for making purchases with stablecoins. Users can also use eETH as collateral.
The cards are accepted wherever Visa operates. They have become the dominant cryptocurrency payment method, accounting for nearly half of all transactions in this segment.
Ether.fi explained the choice of Optimism due to its access to broad liquidity for swaps, a greater number of assets for deposits and withdrawals, and the ability to pay gas fees.
“For end users, the transition will be seamless. Optimism has a proven track record of conducting large migrations in the past and a well-established safe process to avoid disruptions,” assured Ether.fi.
Earlier in February, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin stated that the original concept of second-layer solutions had become outdated. His remarks sparked mixed reactions within the community.