The NU7 update marks a major milestone for the Zcash network. Activated on Friday, it modifies several technical rules and makes funds kept in the old Sprout protected pool inaccessible. Around 12,224 ZECs remain affected, or nearly $15 million according to the data communicated. This development results from a change in the format of transactions accepted by the protocol. It also adjusts the targeted pace of blocks and provides a new mechanism linked to network fees today.
In brief
- Zcash’s NU7 update was activated at block 3,543,405, Friday at 02:34 UTC.
- Around 12,224 ZECs, worth almost $15 million, remain stuck in the Sprout pool.
- The protocol now rejects version 4 transactions, the only format allowing these funds to be spent.
- NU7 reduces the target time between blocks to 25 seconds and plans a fee management mechanism from 2031.
NU7 blocks funds from old Sprout pool
Zcash activated NU7 at block 3,543,405, Friday at 02:34 UTC. Around 12,224 ZEC are shown in the blockchain tracker ZecStats in the Sprout balance. These funds represent nearly 15 million dollars. The new rules now prevent them from being transferred onto the network chain.
This blockage arises from the ZIP 2003 proposal, integrated into the Zcash rules. Protocol rejects version 4 transactionsthe only format for spending Sprout funds. Holders therefore no longer have a recognized method for moving these coins. The update does not destroy units, however.
The specification does not exclude future recovery. A future update could restore version 4 transactions or create another access mechanism. However, the document indicates that this possibility may never return. The fate of the 12,224 ZECs remains uncertain.
Zcash adjusts block pace and fee management
NU7 also lowers the target time between two blocksfrom 75 to 25 seconds. This interval remains a goal, not a guaranteed duration. Actual times will change according to mining difficulty adjustments. Zcash thus adapts its production pace.
Zcash adds a network sustainability mechanism. Starting around February 2031, the protocol will remove 60% of transaction fees from circulation. These amounts can finance future mining rewards. This reserve aims to support the network in the long term.
Finally, NU7 retains the ceiling of 21 million ZEC and the halving schedule. It also imposes limits on protected activity. These restrictions reduce the need for wallet synchronization. For Zcash, the changes affect several aspects of the protocol. The activation of NU7 opens a new technical phase for Zcash, but access to Sprout funds remains uncertain. The next developments will tell if recovery becomes possible.
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