Braavos mobile wallet now enables instant real-world payments using STRK at Lightning Network-enabled vendors. The integration represents a significant step in blockchain usability:
- Simple 3-step payment process: 1. Open Braavos app 2. Scan vendor QR code 3. Complete payment
This development builds on Starknet's robust security features including:
- Limited approval controls
- Multi-factor authentication
- Daily spending limits
- Real-time fraud detection
- Social recovery options
Starknet v0.14.0 Governance Vote Goes Live
Starknet's significant network upgrade v0.14.0 is now up for community vote. The upgrade introduces three major improvements: - **Decentralized sequencing**: Moving away from single-party control - **Faster transactions**: Sub-second pre-confirmations for enhanced user experience - **EIP-1559 style fee market**: Implementation of a more efficient fee structure The upgrade has already been successfully tested on testnet with multiple sequencers running consensus. This represents a crucial step toward network decentralization and improved performance. [Cast your vote here](https://governance.starknet.io/voting-proposals/9) [Read the full SNIP](https://github.com/starknet-io/SNIPs/blob/main/SNIPS/snip-30.md)
Ex-Revolut Team Launching Next-Gen Perpetual DEX on Starknet
A significant DeFi development is coming to Starknet with a new perpetual DEX launching tomorrow. Built by former Revolut team members, it will introduce: - Leverage trading capabilities - Traditional finance asset pairs - Yield farming opportunities In other news: - Layer Akira adds 8 new tokens with $10k lottery campaign - RocketX now bridges ~180 chains to Starknet - Cartridge Controller adds Gmail login support - Byte Beasts integrates Worldcoin verification - New NFT collection Schizodio sells out in under 24 hours [Full weekly recap](https://starknetresearch.substack.com/p/starknet-roundup-182)
Starknet v0.13.6 Update Prepares for S-Two Integration
Starknet announces version 0.13.6, scheduled for Testnet on June 30 and Mainnet on July 8. This update lays groundwork for S-Two, StarkWare's next-gen STARK prover. Key improvements: - S-Two will cut proving time from 24 to 3 minutes for 2B L2 gas blocks - Proving costs expected to reduce by 50% or more - Resource counting enabled - Transaction costs and UX remain unchanged *Note*: Cairo Native temporarily disabled on Testnet, planned reintegration in Q3. [Full release notes](https://community.starknet.io/t/sn-v0-13-6-pre-release-notes/115680)
Asset Runes Enable Native Bitcoin Stablecoin Trading

Asset Runes technology is enabling direct stablecoin trading on Bitcoin for the first time, eliminating the need for cross-chain bridges or wrapped tokens. The development is being implemented through @dot_swap's platform. - Trading is powered by an onchain orderbook - Features Full Mempool Protection - Currently in beta phase - Supports BTC to Rune swaps - Rune to BTC swaps being gradually implemented This marks a significant step toward native Bitcoin DeFi functionality without requiring users to leave the Bitcoin network.
Starknet Enables Cross-Chain Development Across Bitcoin and Ethereum
Starknet is positioning itself as a unified development platform that allows builders to create applications that can leverage both Bitcoin and Ethereum networks simultaneously. Key ecosystem partners supporting development include: - OpenZeppelin - The Graph Protocol - Nethermind - OnlyDust - StarkWare - Starknet Foundation This cross-chain development capability represents a significant step toward blockchain interoperability, allowing developers to harness the unique strengths of both leading networks.