Cardano News

This week, the core technology teams released Cardano node v.8.8.0-pre, enabling Plutus V3 script testing on SanchoNet. DB-Sync began integration with the latest Cardano node version. The ledger team focused on fixes, testing, and developing the cuddle Haskell package for CDDL specification in Haskell. The Lace team addressed core API issues for an upcoming patch. The Plutus team improved the Plutus IR inliner, reducing script costs. The Hydra team worked on Conway support, deployed the Hydra explorer tool, and enhanced model-based testing. The Mithril team implemented a new data type for certifying transactions, upgraded the client library, and released a new Mithril network on SanchoNet. The release of Cardano node v.8.8.0-pre allows for experimentation with Plutus V3 on SanchoNet. Project Catalyst announced the results of Fund11, with 300 funded projects and a total of 1,647 projects in Catalyst history. The education team delivered the Cardano Developer Course with ABC and finalized the Marlowe Curriculum for Educators.

Plutus V3's launch on SanchoNet represents a pivotal advancement for Cardano, introducing substantial improvements in smart contract efficiency, developer experience, and cross-chain interoperability. This evolution from Plutus V1 through V3, driven by a need for higher throughput and enhanced functionality, showcases Cardano's commitment to fostering a scalable, developer-friendly ecosystem. Plutus V3 enhances Cardano's DeFi capabilities, supports complex applications, and integrates advanced cryptographic and governance features, reinforcing its position as a leading blockchain platform for innovation and community-driven development.

This week, the networking team integrated bootstrap peer changes, fixed CDDL errors, and improved tx-submission logic. The consensus team advanced UTXO-HD and epoch structure for Conway. Lace prepared for v.1.9 release. Plutus improved error reporting. Hydra and Mithril teams made significant progress, and SanchoNet updated governance features. Catalyst finished Fund11 voting.

The Cardano Foundation published its 2023 Activity Report, highlighting key projects and operational resilience. The Voltaire Governance Parameter Survey invites community input on Cardano’s on-chain governance. AHLNET, led by Ola Ahlman, is featured in “Spotlight on Stake Pools.” Other news includes the DRep Workshop in Indianapolis, Project Catalyst Fund11 voting, cross-chain swaps by DexHunter, ERC20 token functionality, and the first Cardano Capture The Flag event.

This week, the DB Sync team tested a new version for mainnet and integrated Conway functionality. The Marlowe team optimized performance, resolved Wolfram oracle references, and updated security documents. Hydra conducted roadmapping and improved APIs. Mithril enhanced transaction certification and node communications. Voltaire enabled stake pool operator voting and fixed critical bugs. Project Catalyst continued Fund11 voting, and the education team planned developer training with ABC.

Since November 2023, the Hydra project has made significant progress. Version 0.15.0 was released, featuring offline mode and Conway support. The team also prepared for running Cardano nodes in P2P mode, with non-P2P relays shutting down in January 2024. Notable developments include API changes, removing JSON transactions in favor of CBOR encoding, and ongoing work on Hydra Chess to refine the DApp workflow. Additionally, the Hydra Explorer was initiated to track Hydra heads. The team is also involved in community events like the upcoming Cardano Buidler Fest and supporting Catalyst projects, including streaming API and Hydra auctions.

This week, the networking team integrated bootstrap peers and improved the tx-submission feature. The consensus team worked on Genesis and the second iteration of the ledger DB API for UTXO-HD. The Marlowe team added initial state commands, resolved balancing issues, and published validators on mainnet. Hydra prepared for version 0.15.0, polished hydra-chess, and enhanced testing. Mithril released a client NPM package, new distribution, and improved transaction certification. Project Catalyst started Fund11 voting, and the education team planned Cardano Days events and updated Haskell Bootcamp lessons.

Derek, Co-Founder of VESPR Wallet, shares insights into the wallet’s innovative journey, focusing on user-friendly design, security measures, and responsiveness to feedback, making blockchain accessible for all. On January 20, 2024, a DRep workshop in Oslo, hosted by Thomas Lindseth and Eystein Hansen, focused on refining a Code of Conduct and discussing governance integration and educational content for DReps. IAMX partners with Klüh Multiservices to enhance service management using Cardano. Iagon expands globally with 197 nodes and a China patent. NEWM Studios launches blockchain-minted songs on Cardano Mainnet. Project Catalyst Fund11 voting starts January 25, 2024. Dex Hunter announces cross-chain integration. Marlowe website revamped.

In this interview, Derek, Co-founder of VESPR Wallet, discusses the development of their Cardano wallet. VESPR aims to address the shortcomings of existing wallets with a focus on simplicity and user-friendly design, catering to both newcomers and experienced users.

The interview highlights VESPR's agile approach, operating without a fixed roadmap to adapt to evolving trends and user feedback. Future plans include launching a desktop version and prioritizing hardware wallet support.

Partnerships with organizations like 21ADA Stakepool, DexHunter, Uphold, DripDropz, and HOSKY Token are mentioned, adding collaborative features to VESPR. This interview presents VESPR Wallet as a solution emphasizing practicality and usability in the Cardano ecosystem. Let's right dive in!

On January 26, 2024, the University of Edinburgh will host QSig, a research event bringing together academics and industry experts, including IOG’s professor Aggelos Kiayias and the Ethereum Foundation’s Justin Drake. The event will explore quantum computing’s applications in cryptography, blockchain science, and financial technology. QSig will highlight recent advancements in quantum cryptographic primitives that address longstanding blockchain security challenges. Discussions will cover the potential of quantum key distribution, encryption techniques, and one-shot signature schemes, focusing on their impact on blockchain technology and financial systems. Sponsored by Input Output, the Cardano Foundation, and the Ethereum Foundation, QSig aims to advance research in quantum-enhanced financial technologies.