Reflecting on Tezos in 2024: Part I

Tezos has always been a blockchain built for the future—one that evolves with its community. This year, that ethos shone through as we introduced ambitious roadmaps, activated game-changing upgrades, and expanded into art, gaming, and beyond.

In this edition, we’ll look at how 2024’s technological advancements, cultural milestones, and community-driven initiatives have positioned Tezos for the year in the first half of 2024. Next week, we’ll continue our reflection with a closer look at the partnerships and community projects that have been instrumental in driving this ecosystem forward in the second half of 2024.

Let’s dive into part one of this journey, starting with the year’s biggest headlines.

Tezos X: The Future is Now

The highlight of 2024 was undoubtedly the announcement of Tezos X, a bold roadmap designed to make Tezos more modular, scalable, and interoperable. Tezos X redefines the blockchain’s architecture, setting the stage for massive growth while staying true to its roots of decentralization and community governance.

Tezos X envisions:

• A modular architecture: Dividing tasks across optimized layers to enhance performance while maintaining an integrated user experience.

• Smart Rollups: Scaling transaction throughput by offloading execution to dedicated layers while preserving Layer 1 (L1) security.

• The Data-Availability Layer (DAL): Managing the vast amounts of data required for scaling without compromising decentralization.

• The Canonical Rollup: Consolidating activity into a single rollup to maximize composability and reduce fragmentation.

• Multi-language support: Opening Tezos to mainstream programming languages like JavaScript, Python, and Java to attract millions of new developers.

These developments aim to make Tezos the go-to blockchain for builders, enterprises, and users, providing a seamless, high-performance ecosystem for a wide range of applications.

EtherLink: A Game-Changing Launch for Tezos

One of the most significant launches of the year was EtherLink, an EVM-compatible Layer 2 solution that has redefined what’s possible on Tezos. Built on Smart Rollups, EtherLink combines the scalability and developer familiarity of Ethereum’s ecosystem with the security and decentralization of Tezos.

Why EtherLink Matters

EtherLink is more than just an EVM-compatible rollup; it’s a bridge that connects the best of two worlds:

• Scalability: EtherLink enables high-throughput transactions, making it suitable for complex DeFi applications, gaming, and beyond.

• Low Latency: Sub-second block times ensure a smooth user experience.

• Developer Accessibility: By supporting Solidity and Ethereum tooling, EtherLink opens the Tezos ecosystem to millions of Ethereum developers.

• Decentralized Governance: Inspired by Tezos’ on-chain governance, EtherLink allows bakers to participate in kernel upgrades and sequencer selection, ensuring the network remains community-driven.

EtherLink in Action

EtherLink’s mainnet beta launched with immediate success. Highlights from the year include:

• Kernel Upgrades: The governance-powered deployment of the first kernel upgrade demonstrated the robustness and decentralization of EtherLink’s governance model.

• BattleRise Drop: The exclusive NFT launch for the game BattleRise on Rarible showcased EtherLink’s potential in integrating gaming and NFTs.

• Developer Engagement: EtherLink became a focal point at Tez/Dev and EthCC, attracting hundreds of Ethereum enthusiasts and solidifying its position as a critical part of Tezos’ future.

EtherLink is poised to play a vital role in the Tezos X roadmap. As a scalable, interoperable Layer 2 solution, it exemplifies the modular, high-performance vision that defines the next generation of Tezos.

Tezos Blockchain Upgrades: Driving Evolution

Tezos’ self-amending protocol continues to set it apart, allowing the blockchain to evolve without disruptive hard forks. This year saw two significant upgrades—Oxford in February and Paris in June—each bringing transformative changes to the network.

Oxford (February 2024)

The Oxford upgrade introduced a range of improvements, including:

• Proportional slashing penalties for double baking, strengthening the network’s Proof-of-Stake mechanism.

• Auto-staking: Allowing bakers to automatically stake rewards, simplifying participation for users.

• Expanded Smart Rollup capabilities: Enabling more complex applications to operate seamlessly on Layer 2.

These enhancements reinforced Tezos’ scalability and security, paving the way for its next evolution.

Paris (June 2024)

Paris was one of the most impactful upgrades in Tezos’ history, delivering:

• Reduced block times to 10 seconds, significantly improving user experience.

• Introduction of the Data-Availability Layer (DAL): Ensuring efficient data transmission and availability for Smart Rollup users.

• Adaptive Issuance: Overhauling Tezos’ staking model to better align rewards with network activity.

Additionally, Paris addressed a critical liveness bug in Smart Rollups through the community-led ParisC upgrade in June, showcasing the resilience and responsiveness of Tezos’ decentralized governance.

With 16 upgrades under its belt, Tezos remains a blockchain in constant evolution. These updates aren’t just about performance—they’re about empowering the community, ensuring security, and building the foundation for a decentralized future.

Tez/Dev 2024

This year’s Tez/Dev conference was a celebration of everything that makes Tezos special. Held at the Royal Library of Belgium, the event brought together over 400 attendees, 18 speakers, and a host of ecosystem projects for a day of learning, networking, and innovation.

Highlights included:

• Arthur Breitman’s keynote: Outlining the vision of Tezos X as a blockchain capable of supporting high performance, composability, and mainstream adoption.

• Panels on decentralization: Featuring industry experts discussing the future of Layer 2 solutions.

• Jstz demonstration: Trilitech’s Beata Lipska introduced the JavaScript-powered rollup, opening the doors for Web2 developers to join the Tezos ecosystem.

• Side events: Artcrush Gallery showcased the work of Tezos artists across 1,000 billboards in Belgium, blending art and blockchain in a uniquely Tezos way.

Tez/Dev exemplified the collaborative spirit of the Tezos community, with developers, bakers, and enthusiasts coming together to shape the future of Tezos.

Lowering Barriers for Developers

One of the most exciting themes of 2024 was the focus on improving developer accessibility. By supporting mainstream programming languages and expanding resources, Tezos is making it easier than ever to build on the blockchain.

Jstz: JavaScript on Tezos

The introduction of Jstz was a game-changer for the ecosystem. By allowing developers to use JavaScript—a language familiar to over 23 million programmers—Tezos is breaking down barriers to entry and attracting a new wave of builders.

Jstz isn’t just about syntax. It integrates seamlessly with npm, offering a Web2-like experience for developers while leveraging Web3 capabilities like identity, wallet integration, and payments.

The New Tezos Developer Portal

The revamped Tezos Developer Portal launched this year, providing a comprehensive resource hub for new and experienced developers. Key features include:

• Detailed guides and tutorials for building applications on Tezos.

• Documentation for frameworks, libraries, and the Octez suite.

• Resources for integrating with Etherlink, the EVM-compatible Smart Rollup.

These initiatives reflect Tezos’ commitment to fostering a thriving developer community, ensuring that anyone with an idea can bring it to life on the blockchain.

Cultural Milestones: Art and Gaming on Tezos

2024 wasn’t just about technology; it was also a year of cultural impact, with Tezos making waves in art and gaming.

Art on Tezos

The partnership with the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) in New York City was a standout moment. Visitors could experience:

• Sabato PNG’s “b a r b i e ~ w o r l d ~ b r e a k d o w n” on MoMI’s Schlosser Media Wall.

• Auriea Harvey’s “Echo” digital sculpture, blending traditional and digital art.

• Interactive installations allowing visitors to mint fragments of artwork on Tezos.

These initiatives showcased how blockchain can enhance creativity, providing artists with new tools to reach audiences and redefine the museum experience.

Gaming Highlights

Gaming continued to thrive in the Tezos ecosystem, with milestones like:

• BattleRise Founders Pass Drop: A collaboration with Rarible and Etherlink, combining immersive gameplay with play-to-earn mechanics.

• TZ Apex Season 1: Rewarding early adopters of new Tezos projects and engaging the gaming community.

These achievements highlight how Tezos is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, from NFTs to play-to-earn models.

A Community-Driven Ecosystem

Tezos’ greatest strength has always been its community. This year, their collective efforts were on full display, from protocol upgrades to grassroots initiatives.

The ParisC Upgrade

When a liveness bug temporarily affected Etherlink’s Smart Rollups, the community rallied to implement the ParisC upgrade. With over 90% of bakers updating to Octez v20.1, this achievement exemplified the power of decentralized governance and collaboration.

Etherlink Governance

Etherlink introduced an innovative governance model inspired by Tezos’ L1, allowing bakers to participate in kernel upgrades and sequencer operations. This approach ensures that Etherlink remains secure, decentralized, and community-driven.

The Road to 2025

As we reflect on 2024, it’s clear that Tezos is on an incredible trajectory. The year was defined by bold visions, collaborative efforts, and a commitment to building a blockchain that’s accessible, scalable, and sustainable.

In next week’s Baking Sheet, we’ll dive deeper into the key partnerships and community projects that continue to shape the Tezos ecosystem in the second half of the year. We’ll also explore what’s on the horizon for 2025, as we move forward with the momentum of this transformative year.

Thank you for being part of this journey. The Tezos community is the heart of everything we do, and your passion and ingenuity are what make this blockchain truly unique.

Here’s to an exciting future—together!

PS — We are 3 days away of the current Quebec proposal moving from the cooldown period to the final voting period. Bakers, get ready to vote and follow the progress at Tezos Agora. We appreciate all of you for supporting the network, let’s bring it home during the holidays!

$ tezos-client submit ballot for <delegate> <PsQuebecnLByd3JwTiGadoG4nGWi3HYiLXUjkibeFV8dCFeVMUg> <yay|nay|pass>

This Week in the Tezos Ecosystem

As we transition from the exciting reflections in the headlines section, this week’s Tezos Ecosystem spotlight focuses on an awesome development that marries sports fandom and blockchain: Fantasy United, Manchester United's fantasy football experience powered by Tezos.

Take the Game to the Next Level with Fantasy United

Think you can outscore your friends and prove you’re the ultimate football strategist? Manchester United’s Fantasy United has just introduced its Head-to-Head mode, taking competitive fantasy sports to new heights.

Here’s how Fantasy United, built on Tezos, levels up the game:

• Challenge Your Friends: Create your own custom challenges, select matches, and invite friends to a direct competition.

• Earn Rewards: Play against your friends and earn free Player Trading Card packs to boost your team.

• Prove Your Skills: Outperform your rivals, climb the leaderboard, and claim the title of United Champion.

Powered by Tezos, Fantasy United ensures a seamless and secure gaming experience, leveraging Tezos' strengths to bring transparency and ownership to player interactions. Fans not only get to engage in gameplay but also experience digital ownership that Tezos brings to gaming.

Ready to test your skills and take on your friends? Head to Fantasy United to get started. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard strategist, this is your chance to shine in the ultimate football fantasy challenge.

🔴 Now Streaming: Artist Spotlight | James Lee

This week on TezTalks Live, we’re joined by James Lee, aka Jams2Blues—artist, Guinness World Record holder, and Web3 philanthropist. James shares his journey into blockchain art, the story behind Save The World With Art, and his passion for empowering artists and supporting charitable causes.

🌟 Our special guest is James Lee, a driving force in Web3 art and environmental sustainability.

🔍 In this episode, we’ll explore:

Save The World With Art: - How James’ initiative helps artists manage their on-chain NFTs while shining a light on new talent.

Art Competitions & Zero Contracts: - Learn about the Save The World With Art Prize and how fully on-chain solutions like Zero Contracts are shaping the future of blockchain art.

Philanthropy & Blockchain: - James discusses how Web3 and decentralization intersect with charity work, highlighting Tezos’ low environmental impact.

Sustainability & Community: - Discover why environmental consciousness and artist empowerment are at the heart of James’ work on Tezos.

What’s Next: - Get a sneak peek into upcoming projects and initiatives from James Lee and Save The World With Art.

Watch the full episode on YouTube and X.