Zcash NU7 testnet upgrade brings faster blocks, key changes

6.7 Tech

Oct 5, 2026

Zcash activated NU7 on testnet, cutting block times, adding a fee-recycling mechanism, and retiring the Sprout pool. Mainnet rollout is planned for November, with a final decision on October 20.

Zcash has successfully activated its NU7 network upgrade on the public testnet at block 4,465,026, ahead of schedule. This upgrade reduces block times from 75 seconds to 25 seconds, significantly improving transaction speed. It also introduces a Network Sustainability Mechanism, redirecting 60% of transaction fees to future mining rewards, and retires the Sprout shielded pool, disabling version 4 transactions. The activation occurred two days earlier than planned due to proactive testnet operator upgrades. Users with funds in the Sprout pool must transfer them before the mainnet upgrade to maintain access. Developers will review testnet results and determine the mainnet activation height on October 20. The testnet phase enables exchanges, wallets, and developers to evaluate the upgrade's impact in a live environment before the final rollout, planned for November.