Deep Dive
1. Improved Mempool & PoS2 Prep (12 November 2025)
Overview: This update makes the network more responsive by speeding up how pending transactions are handled. It also lays the foundation for the upcoming, more efficient PoS2 plot format, which will benefit farmers in the future.
The release (version 2.5.7) focuses on core network health. The enhanced mempool performance means transactions are validated and queued more efficiently, reducing potential delays. The preliminary support for the PoS2 plot format is a forward-looking step, preparing the ecosystem for a more advanced and potentially more space-efficient farming standard.
What this means: This is bullish for XCH because it makes the network faster and more reliable for everyday transactions. It also shows the development team is actively working on the next generation of farming technology, which could attract more users and increase the network's value over time. (Source)
2. Mandatory Farming Upgrade (19 August 2025)
Overview: This release (version 2.5.5) is a required update for all farmers to continue participating on the mainnet. It includes several important changes to ensure network stability and proper block validation.
The update emphasizes the importance of keeping software current to maintain the security and integrity of the blockchain. It contains modifications that affect how the node processes blocks and interacts with peers, which are critical for seamless operation.
What this means: This is neutral for XCH as it's a routine but essential maintenance update. It ensures the network remains secure and functional for all participants, which is fundamental for long-term stability. (Source)
3. Kecc256 Soft-Fork Implementation (12 December2024)
Overview: This major update (version 2.5.0) introduced a new soft-fork with the CLVM "keccak256" operator. It also removed support for an older version of Python, streamlining the development environment.
The soft-fork, known as CHIP-36, added a new cryptographic building block directly into Chialisp. This allows developers to write more advanced and secure smart contracts, expanding the possible use cases for the Chia blockchain.
What this means: This is bullish for XCH because it enhances the platform's capabilities for developers. By enabling more complex and secure applications, it increases the utility of the blockchain, which can drive future adoption and demand. (Source)
Conclusion
Chia's development trajectory remains focused on core optimizations and future-proofing the network, with recent updates targeting transaction speed and next-generation farming infrastructure. How will the planned PoS2 plot format adoption impact the broader storage farming landscape?