The team behind the L2 solution ZKsync has unveiled a new ecosystem design, initiating a shift to an ‘elastic chain’ architecture, as reported by The Block.
The update v24, launched on June 7, transforms ZKsync from a single ZK-rollup into a network of multiple chains. These blockchains are expected to feature functional interoperability and a unified user interface.
According to the ZKsync 3.0 roadmap, architectural changes include reconfiguring the ecosystem’s native bridge into a token vault. This step aims to enhance interaction among the expanding array of ZK networks.
Developers claim that the transition to an ‘elastic chain’ will ensure seamless operation akin to a single blockchain, without the need to switch between networks.
The foundational layer will be ZKsync Era. By the end of 2024, the ecosystem will encompass over 20 protocols developed using the ZK Stack. These include projects such as Lens Protocol, QuarkID, PlayFi, GRVT, Cronos zkEVM, Nodle, and others.
On June 17, the ZKsync team launched the governance token ZK, distributing 3.6 billion coins (17.5% of the total supply) among early users. The airdrop faced community criticism, as only 13% of 6 million unique wallets were eligible, many of which turned out to be ‘sybils’.
The token distribution sparked a surge in network activity, which proved short-lived — on-chain metrics continued to decline, as did the asset’s price.
In June, the project announced a new ecosystem governance model called ZK Nation.