<img src="https://cryptoslate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ethereum-pectra.jpg” />
ethereum developers are preparing to unveil the network's next upgrade, Pectra, in March 2025.
This schedule was discussed during the last Execution layer meeting on January 16, outlining key milestones leading to mainnet activation.
According to the developers, the preparation begins with the finalization of the block numbers for the Sepolia and Holesky forks, which is expected to conclude on January 23 or 30.
Subsequently, updated versions of the client will be released on February 3. The Sepolia fork is scheduled for February 12, followed by the Holesky fork on February 19.
These forks will adopt shadow testing, simulating main network conditions to ensure realistic and efficient testing. This approach avoids creating an additional developer network, reducing complexity while thoroughly vetting the update.
Christine Kim, a researcher at Galaxy Digital, acknowledged that the schedule remains flexible. He noted that unexpected problems during testing could cause delays, although optimism is growing about a March activation.
Kim <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/christine_dkim/status/1879919369016525281″>warned in x:
“The above (date) is a tentative and optimistic schedule for pectra activation on test networks and the main network. Bugs and problems in the code found during testing can delay the schedule.”
pectra update
The Pectra upgrade has been described as ethereum's most ambitious hard fork and was initially divided into two phases.
The first phase promises several improvements to improve the efficiency and usability of ethereum. Among its highlights are updates to account abstraction, validator engagement processes, and deposit and exit mechanisms.
Meanwhile, the second version of Pectra is expected to introduce even more transformative changes. While no release date has been set for Pectra 2, it could include advancements such as upgrades to the ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) and the implementation of PeerDAS technology.
Combined, these features are designed to simplify user interactions while strengthening the network's operating framework.
