Key Takeaways
Coinbase-incubated Layer 2 network Base launched its Azul upgrade on testnet, introducing a multiproof system designed to cut withdrawal times to as little as one day ahead of a planned May 13, 2026 mainnet release.
"The strongest signal here is execution, not hype," an expert noted on the release. "It used hard numbers, clear deadlines, and audit details. That gives readers something concrete to track."
The platform's work has already cut daily empty blocks from approximately 200 to 2 and sustained transaction bursts of 5,000 per second, according to an official post. The upgrade also consolidates the client stack to base-reth-node for execution and base-consensus for consensus to simplify development.
The Azul upgrade is a key step toward achieving Stage 2 decentralization, a milestone on Vitalik Buterin’s roadmap for safer Layer 2 finality. If the multiproof system works as designed on mainnet, it could strengthen demand for chains that pair high speed with stronger security guarantees.
The core of the upgrade is its multiproof system, which uses both permissioned Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) proofs and permissionless Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proofs. While either system can finalize a transaction batch independently, withdrawals can be processed in one day when both systems agree. If a conflict occurs, the ZK proof can override the TEE proof, adding a significant layer of security. An attacker would need to compromise multiple independent systems to force a malicious withdrawal. To reduce risk before the mainnet launch, Base has subjected all onchain components and proof systems to internal and external audits. The company is also running an Immunefi bug bounty contest until May 4, with a maximum reward of $250,000 for identifying critical vulnerabilities.
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