Ethereum

A significant development in blockchain payment infrastructure has emerged through EIP 3009 implementation on both Ethereum and Base networks. - EIP 3009 introduces autonomous payment capabilities - Integration spans both Ethereum mainnet and Base layer-2 - Enables streamlined discover-and-pay functionality This protocol enhancement represents a step forward in automated blockchain transactions, allowing for more efficient payment processes across these networks. *Technical Implementation:* The feature leverages Ethereum's core infrastructure while extending functionality to Base's scaling solution. Learn more about EIP 3009 at [Ethereum Improvement Proposals](https://eips.ethereum.org/)

A long-dormant HTTP status code (402 Payment Required) is getting new life through Ethereum, enabling autonomous AI agents to make direct payments for services. Key developments: - x402 and EIP 3009 allow servers to quote prices in USDC - Agents can automatically pay for API calls without human intervention - No API keys or billing dashboards needed - Several APIs already live with x402 support: - Inference APIs (@hyperbolic_labs) - Media generation (@prodialabs) - Web search (@firecrawl_dev) - Social APIs (@Neynar_xyz) Developers can learn more at [x402.org](http://x402.org) or view the [@CoinbaseDev repo](https://github.com/coinbase/x402/)

An expat shares their experience living in Argentina without national ID, highlighting how crypto simplified daily life. Initially relying on informal peso purchases from a flower stall, they later found stability through: - Paying rent directly in USDC to crypto-accepting landlords - Using p2p services that exchange USDT on Arbitrum for peso delivery - Connecting with local crypto communities for social support This real-world application demonstrates how digital currencies can overcome traditional banking barriers and foster community integration for international residents.

**Key Ethereum Developments:** - Pectra upgrade live with smart account features and 2x L2 capacity - Stripe launches stablecoin accounts in 101 countries - Uniswap reaches $3T all-time swap volume - Multiple L2s reach Stage 1: Base, Kinto, Scroll, and Starknet **Technical Achievements:** - ZKSync achieves full EVM equivalence - SuccinctLabs/RiscZero reduces block proving to 12s - Aztec launches public testnet for private L2 **Adoption Highlights:** - Coinbase integrates Farcaster social - AAVE partners with ANT for RWA marketplace - WorldID verifies 12.5M humans on L2 - MorphoLabs hits $1B TVL on Base

Microsoft Fabric users can now access Ethereum blockchain data through Space and Time's integration. This development marks a significant step in enterprise blockchain adoption. - The integration enables direct querying of Ethereum on-chain data - Space and Time, operating on ZKsync Chain, provides ZK-verified data - Enterprise users can now access trustless, queryable blockchain data for business analytics This collaboration bridges the gap between traditional enterprise systems and blockchain technology, making Web3 data more accessible to mainstream businesses.

A new 'Checkpoint' series has been introduced to provide condensed updates from Ethereum's weekly All Core Developer calls. - Series will cover 4-5 calls per update - Focus on high-level development progress - Aims to make technical discussions more accessible The initiative comes as Ethereum continues to evolve, with recent discussions including the Dencun upgrade coordination among core developers. *Follow the Checkpoint series to stay informed about Ethereum's technical development without getting overwhelmed by weekly details.*

The Ethereum Foundation emphasizes its dedication to treating information as a public good, highlighting two key initiatives: - **Research Grant Program**: Launched in 2022 to support academic research and knowledge sharing - **Next Billion Fellowship**: Focuses on documenting community impact stories and technological accessibility These programs align with the Foundation's core mission of keeping technology open and accessible while fostering community-driven development. *Learn more about ongoing research opportunities and fellowship applications through the Ethereum Foundation portal.*

Mulenga Kapwepwe, founder of the Women's History Museum of Zambia, initiated discussions with local tech experts about blockchain's potential role in cultural preservation. This exploration follows a growing trend of African cultural institutions seeking innovative technological solutions. The initiative connects with other regional movements like Bitcoin Dada in Kenya, which focuses on empowering African women in blockchain technology. Key points: - Museum founder exploring blockchain for heritage preservation - Local tech community engaged in discussions - Part of broader African tech adoption movement *This intersection of traditional cultural preservation and blockchain technology represents an emerging trend in African heritage institutions.*

The Ethereum Foundation's EcoDev Research Team has announced five six-month research fellowship positions. These fellowships aim to explore underutilized Ethereum use cases, offering participants a unique opportunity for in-depth research. Key points: - Five positions available - Six-month duration - Focus on underexplored Ethereum applications This initiative follows the recent Devconnect Scholars Program, which aimed to increase diversity in the Ethereum community. Both programs demonstrate the Foundation's commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity in the Ethereum ecosystem. Interested candidates should check the Ethereum Foundation's website for application details and deadlines.

Ethereum's highly anticipated Cancun-Deneb upgrade has successfully launched, marking a significant milestone in the blockchain's evolution. Key improvements include: - Enhanced scalability and reduced transaction costs - Improved smart contract functionality - Increased network security measures The upgrade, part of Ethereum's ongoing development roadmap, aims to address previous limitations and pave the way for future innovations. While the immediate impact may be subtle, experts predict long-term benefits for developers, users, and the broader Ethereum ecosystem. As the community adapts to these changes, stay tuned for updates on how this upgrade shapes Ethereum's future.