Tech Zcash has successfully activated its 25-second block feature on a public test network ahead of schedule, enabling a crucial trial run prior to its mainnet launch, which is set for November 5.
NU7 upgrade reduces block time from 75 seconds to 25, allowing exchanges, wallets, and developers to prepare effectively.
By Shaurya Malwa Oct 5, 2026, 12:41 a.m. EDT 2 min read
The recent upgrade, known as NU7, has decreased the target block time from 75 seconds to just 25 seconds, providing a live testing environment for exchanges, wallets, and developers before the planned mainnet rollout in November. The upgrade was initiated at block 4,465,026, and the new rules are now active on the public testnet, as confirmed by Zakura, the software monitoring Zcash transactions.
With faster block production, merchants can accept payments more swiftly, and exchanges can process deposits with reduced waiting times. For example, a service requiring three confirmations would now expect a wait of around 75 seconds instead of 225 seconds if it retains its current confirmation policy. However, actual block times may vary.
The test network utilizes coins that hold no monetary value, allowing developers and operators to assess the changes without impacting real ZEC transactions.
Both primary node programs are now compatible with this testing phase. Zakura launched its implementation on October 1, followed by the Zcash Foundation's release of a test version of Zebra the next day. Operators must have compatible software to participate in the upgraded test network.
Read More: Zcash targets November upgrade to make private payments up to three times faster
In addition to the block time change, NU7 alters the distribution of transaction fees. Miners will now receive 40% of the fees, while the remaining 60% will be removed from circulation and allocated to a reserve designed to fund future mining rewards. These rewards are vital as the issuance of new ZEC is set to decline over time.
Although blocks are produced more quickly, this will not triple the issuance of new coins, as the reward per block is reduced to one-third to maintain the overall issuance schedule.
The upgrade also phases out the use of transactions associated with Sprout, Zcash’s original privacy system. Users with funds in Sprout must transfer their assets before the mainnet activation to continue accessing them through the existing system.
Developers are set to review the test results and will make a decision regarding the mainnet activation on October 20. The target date for the mainnet remains November 5, though no specific activation block has been determined yet.