Deep Dive
1. Major CLI Overhaul (v7.0.0, 2025)
Overview: This is a breaking update to the primary command-line interface (celocli) for developers and node operators. It removes outdated functionality and modernizes the codebase to align with Celo's current architecture as an Ethereum Layer 2.
The update eliminates several validator and account commands that were only relevant for the legacy Layer 1, cleaning up the tool for current use. A significant technical shift is the migration from the older Web3.js/ContractKit stack to Viem, a lighter and faster Ethereum library. This improves transaction speed and gas estimation, especially for transfers using stablecoins as gas. The update also deprecates support for Azure Key Vault (--useAKV) and removes the global --gasCurrency flag from config, reflecting changes in how fee currencies are managed on L2.
What this means: This is bullish for CELO because it signifies active, mature development focused on improving the experience for builders. The shift to modern tools means faster and more reliable transactions for applications, which is crucial for user adoption. However, it is a breaking change, so developers must update their scripts and workflows.
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2. Jello Hardfork & ZK Fault Proofs (10 December 2025)
Overview: This is an upcoming scheduled network upgrade (hardfork) named "Jello." Its central feature is the integration of OP Succinct Lite, which introduces zero-knowledge (ZK) fault proofs to Celo's rollup infrastructure.
Fault proofs are a critical security mechanism that allows anyone to challenge incorrect state transitions submitted by the network's sequencer. Implementing them with ZK technology makes the challenges more efficient and secure. This upgrade follows the successful mainnet migration to an L2 in March 2025 and the Isthmus hardfork in July 2025, representing continued evolution of the chain's core technology.
What this means: This is extremely bullish for CELO as it directly enhances the network's security and trustworthiness, a fundamental requirement for institutional and high-value use cases. It positions Celo at the forefront of L2 innovation, potentially attracting more sophisticated developers and projects to its ecosystem.
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3. Eclair Modular Testnet Launch (July 2025)
Overview: Prior to the Jello hardfork, the team launched the Eclair public testnet. This environment allows developers to experiment with Celo's new modular architecture, which combines OP Succinct Lite's ZK fault proofs with EigenDA v2 for data availability.
EigenDA is a scalable data availability layer that helps reduce transaction costs. The testnet ensures that Celo's signature features—like paying gas fees with ERC-20 tokens (fee abstraction)—remain fully functional within this new, more advanced technical stack.
What this means: This is neutral to bullish for CELO. It demonstrates a rigorous, step-by-step approach to development and testing, reducing the risk of bugs in mainnet upgrades. A successful testnet paves the way for a smoother, more secure mainnet enhancement, which benefits the entire network's stability and user experience.
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Conclusion
Celo's recent codebase activity is dominated by its evolution into a secure, modular Ethereum Layer 2, marked by a cleaned-up developer toolkit and pioneering integrations of zero-knowledge proof technology. How will these foundational upgrades accelerate the development of real-world, mobile-first applications on the network?