Zcash Foundation Releases Zebra 7.0.0 Ahead of NU7

The Zcash Foundation has released Zebra 7.0.0 featuring NU7 mainnet support, instructing node operators to complete their upgrades before reaching block 3,543,405, which is expected around Nov. 5, according to CryptoNews. Mainnet operators must install the software to remain on the consensus chain, while older 6.4.x releases are scheduled to halt operations days before activation.

NU7 Upgrade Details

NU7 introduces 25-second blocks under ZIP 218, down from the previous 75-second target, while preserving the scheduled daily issuance of ZEC. According to the release details, the software divides scheduled block rewards by three and adjusts the remaining halving intervals to maintain the four-year halving schedule and the 21 million ZEC supply cap. The upgrade also includes fixes for five security advisories.

Under the Network Sustainability Mechanism, 60% of transaction fees will leave circulation for a reserve, while miners keep the remaining 40%. The reserved funds can return gradually through future block rewards beginning at mainnet block 8,939,664, expected around February 2031. A September coinholder poll recorded roughly 99.9% support for shorter block spacing and 98.9% support for preserving halvings.

Key facts

• Zebra 7.0.0 was released with NU7 mainnet support and fixes for five security advisories.
• Mainnet operators must upgrade before block 3,543,405, expected around Nov. 5.
• NU7 introduces 25-second blocks while maintaining the four-year halving schedule and 21 million ZEC cap.
• The Network Sustainability Mechanism allocates 60% of transaction fees to a reserve and 40% to miners.