Deep Dive
1. Bellecour Testnet Sunset (2 July 2026)
Overview: iExec officially retired its Bellecour testnet, a significant infrastructure update. User balances were automatically migrated to the Ethereum mainnet, simplifying the ecosystem for developers and token holders.
This marks the end of a major development phase. The team is now focusing its efforts on the primary networks of Ethereum and Arbitrum, which should lead to more concentrated development resources and a clearer path for builders. The automatic migration of funds (for balances ≥ 0.1 RLC) ensured a seamless transition with no required action from users.
What this means: This is neutral for RLC as it streamlines operations. It reduces complexity for developers by focusing on fewer, more robust networks, which could lead to faster innovation and deployment of new applications on the main platforms.
(iExec RLC)
2. Arbitrum Privacy Layer Launch (8 September 2025)
Overview: iExec expanded its core privacy technology to the Arbitrum network. This integration allows developers on one of the largest DeFi ecosystems to build AI, gaming, and finance apps with built-in data protection, without managing their own complex infrastructure.
This was a major technical deployment, making iExec the first provider of Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) technology on Arbitrum. The framework is designed for rapid integration across multiple EVM-compatible chains. Key to this update is that all confidential computations and transactions on Arbitrum are powered by and consume RLC tokens.
What this means: This is bullish for RLC because it directly increases the token's utility. Every new private application built on Arbitrum creates new demand for RLC to pay for secure computation, potentially driving increased circulation and value.
(U.Today)
3. Tokenomics & Utility Overhaul (May 2025)
Overview: During a dedicated "Tokenomics Week," iExec rolled out a suite of updates designed to embed RLC deeper into its ecosystem's economy. These changes were implemented at the smart contract and protocol level to create new use cases for the token.
The updates included a new voucher system for developers to pre-purchase computing power, a revenue-sharing model that redistributes fees back to users in RLC, and an expanded staking program linked to the Privacy Pass initiative. The goal was to establish a circular economy where using the network rewards participation and fuels further development.
What this means: This is bullish for RLC because it creates multiple, sustained reasons to hold and use the token beyond simple speculation. By rewarding builders and users directly with RLC, the update encourages long-term ecosystem growth and token demand.
(CryptoDaily)
Conclusion
iExec's recent codebase evolution shows a clear trajectory: consolidating infrastructure, expanding to high-value networks like Arbitrum, and engineering deeper token utility—all to fuel a privacy-first computing economy. Will the next major update focus on integrating with another major Layer 2 or enhancing confidential AI capabilities?