Deep Dive
1. SDK Deprecation Warning (17 July 2023)
Overview: Orca deprecated its legacy TypeScript SDK for older liquidity pools, urging developers to migrate to the new Whirlpools SDK for upgraded features.
The deprecated SDK supported Orca’s original automated market maker (AMM) pools, while Whirlpools introduced concentrated liquidity ranges for capital efficiency. Developers must update integrations to avoid disruptions, as legacy pools are no longer maintained.
What this means: This is neutral for ORCA because it prioritizes long-term technical robustness over backward compatibility. Developers gain access to better tools, but migration efforts may temporarily slow ecosystem expansion.
(Source)
2. Wavebreak Launchpad (29 July 2025)
Overview: Orca launched Wavebreak, a Solana token launchpad with CAPTCHA and onchain permissions to block sniper bots.
The codebase update bundled anti-bot logic into transaction validation, preventing automated front-running during token launches. Early data showed ~25,000 bots blocked in the first two days, including during DeFiTuna’s token generation event.
What this means: This is bullish for ORCA because it strengthens Orca’s role as a fair-launch hub, potentially attracting more projects and traders to its ecosystem.
(Source)
3. Liquidity Pool Updates (18 January 2026)
Overview: Projects like $FUJI deepened liquidity on Orca’s pools, with boosted incentives for LPs.
Code adjustments improved compatibility with third-party token launches, allowing projects to lock liquidity directly via Orca’s interface. This contrasts with platforms like PumpSwap, which lack locking features.
What this means: This is bullish for ORCA because higher liquidity reduces slippage for traders, making the DEX more competitive against rivals like Raydium.
(Source)
Conclusion
Orca’s code updates emphasize developer adaptability, fairness, and liquidity depth – aligning with Solana’s high-speed DeFi ethos. While SDK changes demand effort, anti-bot innovations and LP upgrades position ORCA as a core infrastructure player. How will Whirlpools’ adoption rates shape Orca’s market share against concentrated liquidity rivals?