Zcash Gets Upgrade Alert: Two Key Dates in October
The Zcash Foundation has released Zebra 7.0.0-rc.0, the first release candidate for the NU7 network upgrade. The upgrade is code-complete in Zebra, with the testnet activation scheduled for block 4,465,026, expected around October 6, 2026.
The Zcash Foundation announced the release of Zebra 7.0.0-rc.0, the first release candidate for the NU7 network upgrade. NU7 is now code-complete in Zebra, with the testnet activation set at block 4,465,026, expected around October 6, 2026. Node operators are urged to upgrade before this date.
Zebra 7.0.0-rc.0 is here — NU7 arrives on Testnet 🦓 ⚡️ Blocks every 25 seconds instead of 75 🛡️ New shielded limits protect wallets from spam Activates on Testnet at height 4,465,026 (~Oct 6). Testnet operators should upgrade before then 👇️
Speeding Up Transactions
Under ZIP 218, NU7 cuts the target block spacing from 75 seconds to 25 seconds. This change means the average wait for a first confirmation drops to 25 seconds, addressing a current obstacle for users at points of sale, for exchange deposits, and for cross-chain bridges. The amount of ZEC issued per day remains unchanged.
Currently, a Zcash user waits 75 seconds on average for a first confirmation, which is seen as a real obstacle at points of sale, for exchange deposits, and for cross-chain bridges.
New Limits and Sustainability
NU7 introduces per-block limits: 330 Orchard or Ironwood operations, 300 Sapling inputs and outputs, a shared budget of 330 across pools, and no new Sprout JoinSplits.
The upgrade also includes a new network sustainability mechanism under ZIP 235, where 60% of each block's transaction fees are withdrawn from circulation and deposited in a reserve, while miners keep the remaining 40%. Under ZIP 237, a small, predictable portion of that reserve is then reissued on top of the normal reward.
Under ZIP 235, 60% of each block's transaction fees are withdrawn from circulation and deposited in a reserve, while miners keep the remaining 40%, giving them ample reason to include transactions.
Activation Dates
NU7 activates on the public Testnet at height 4,465,026, expected around October 6, 2026. The mainnet activation height is set for October 20, 2026. The usual four-year halving schedule and the 21 million ZEC supply cap remain unaltered.
As stated earlier, NU7 activates on the public Testnet at height 4,465,026, expected around October 6, while the mainnet activation height will be set on October 20, 2026.
