Ethereum Prepares Layer 1 zkEVM to Validate Blocks with ZK Proofs
- zkEVM L1 will bring ZK proofs to Ethereum core
- ZK proofs can replace transaction re-execution
- Ethereum Foundation Reorganizes Teams to Accelerate Adoption
Ethereum developers are planning to integrate zero-knowledge proofs directly into Layer 1 of the network, through an optional version of zkEVM, with the goal of transforming block verification into a process based on cryptographic proofs rather than transaction re-execution.
The Ethereum Foundation has recently announced the plan of launching an L1 zkEVM.
The Ethereum Foundation proposes a path to launch an L1 zkEVM in under a year.
The idea is to start with offchain proof verification by validators, using zk clients to validate execution instead… pic.twitter.com/pEgueSwEyT
— Kingjami 🎒 (@__cryptowizard) July 11, 2025
The proposal, detailed by protocol engineer Sophia Gold in a post titled "Submitting a zkEVM L1 #1: Real-Time Proof," envisions a system in which validators can confirm blocks by analyzing three independent zk proofs. The technical goals include latency of less than 10 seconds for 99% of blocks, proof size under 300 KiB, and execution possible on hardware costing up to US$100, with a maximum power consumption of 10 kW.
Initially, only a small number of validators are expected to adopt zkEVM clients. However, as trust grows, supported by audits, formal verification, and bug bounties, the technology is expected to become standard and even power native zk-rollups.
Gold challenged zkVM teams to achieve the latency target by Devconnect Argentina in November, calling the development a "race to real-time." If successfully implemented, the Layer 1 zkEVM would position Ethereum as the largest active use case for zk technology, paving the way for features like on-chain privacy, signature aggregation, and increased scalability.
This advancement comes as competing blockchains also race to integrate ZK proofs, especially on secondary layers. Gold's publication represents the most concrete roadmap yet for applying ZK technology to the network's own consensus, bringing the project closer to Vitalik Buterin's vision of the platform's ZK-friendly future.
At the same time, the Ethereum Foundation is revamping its organizational structure, with new teams dedicated to security and practical adoption of the technology. The strategy includes the "One Trillion Security" program, focused on strengthening the network's core security components, as well as expanding grants and support for developers contributing to the zkEVM ecosystem.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
You may also like
As AI controversies escalate, hedge funds buy tech stocks at the fastest pace in 15 months
Hedge funds have recorded net purchases of US TMT stocks on 10 out of the past 11 trading days, rebuilding tech long positions at the fastest pace in 15 months. However, an AI policy storm has struck at the "worst possible time"—calls by AI giants to slow down development have been rejected, and regulatory uncertainty has directly hit Asian tech stocks such as Softbank. As the tech sector's bullish run coincides with Super Central Bank Week, the sector now faces a severe test.
Apple Pre-sale Tracker: iPhone 18 Pro Series Shows Weak Overseas Demand Signals, Duo Review Positive but Hardware Lags Behind
According to a survey by Jefferies, after the launch of the iPhone 18 Pro, delivery wait times in the four major markets—the US, UK, Germany, and Japan—have shortened by 5 to 11 days compared to last year, with no wait time in the US. Given stable production capacity, this is a clear sign of weak demand. Although the China and Hong Kong markets have performed better against the trend, there are still suspicions of speculative stockpiling. The new foldable Duo has been praised for its software experience, but its $2,000 price tag comes with a 254-gram body and dual-camera setup, leaving its hardware lagging significantly behind Android competitors. Jefferies maintains an "underperform" rating, with a target price implying a 21% downside from the current level.
SUI holds $0.71 support as analysts cite key buy signal, eyes on possible recovery
UBS Health Benefit Survey: Elevance Health (ELV.US) Leads, U.S. Employers Prepare for Rising Medical Costs
In the annual survey by UBS for employee benefits management institutions, Elevance Health (ELV.US) emerged as the highest-rated US health insurance company.
Crypto prices
More
