The Solana v1.16 Update: Important Changes and Features
The Solana (SOL) network recently rolled out its latest update, version 1.16, after undergoing rigorous testing and audits. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers and lead nodes, this update brings several crucial enhancements, especially for Solana validators.
Changes in Solana v1.16 Update
- Private Transfers: One of the notable features introduced in this update is private transfers. Utilizing zero-knowledge proofs, this feature encrypts balances and transaction amounts of SPL tokens, enhancing user privacy through anonymity.
- Improved Support for Zero-Knowledge Proofs: Solana v1.16 enhances its zero-knowledge capabilities by providing improved runtime support for zero-knowledge calculations, specifically 128-bit elliptic curve operations. It introduces alt_bn128 syscalls, essential for efficient proof generation.
- Validators: In this update, RAM usage for validators has been significantly reduced. The system has been reconfigured to index accounts on disk by default, eliminating the reliance on RAM and optimizing performance.
- Support for Resizable Accounts: Solana v1.16 enables programs to be deployed with resizable data accounts. This means programs can start with a smaller computational size and then expand as needed to accommodate differences in memory requirements.
Please note that while these features have been introduced, some might not be immediately available. They will be rolled out gradually using a feature gateway system, ensuring a smooth transition for all users.
Stay tuned for more updates on Solana’s evolving ecosystem and how these enhancements will impact users and validators alike.
