Zcash changes its rules and permanently blocks access to 12,224 ZEC

The NU7 update marks a major milestone for the Zcash network. Activated on Friday, it changes several technical rules and makes funds held in the old Sprout protected pool inaccessible. About 12,224 ZEC remain affected, amounting to nearly 15 million dollars according to the data provided. This evolution results from a change in the transaction format accepted by the protocol. It also adjusts the targeted block timing and provides a new mechanism related to today’s network fees.

In brief

• Zcash’s NU7 update was activated at block 3,543,405, Friday at 02:34 UTC.
• About 12,224 ZEC, representing nearly 15 million dollars, remain blocked in the Sprout pool.
• The protocol now rejects version 4 transactions, the only format allowing spending of these funds.
• NU7 reduces the target time between blocks to 25 seconds and provides a fee management mechanism starting in 2031.

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NU7 blocks funds from the old Sprout pool

Zcash activated NU7 at block 3,543,405, Friday at 02:34 UTC. About 12,224 ZEC are shown in the blockchain tracker ZecStats in the Sprout balance. These funds represent nearly 15 million dollars. The new rules now prevent their transfer on the network chain.

This blocking results from the ZIP 2003 proposal, incorporated into Zcash’s rules. The protocol rejects version 4 transactions, the only format allowing spending of Sprout funds. Holders therefore no longer have a recognized method to move these coins. The update, however, does not destroy the units.

The specification does not rule out future recovery. A forthcoming update could restore version 4 transactions or create another access mechanism. However, the document indicates this possibility might never return. The fate of the 12,224 ZEC remains uncertain.

Zcash adjusts block timing and fee management

NU7 also lowers the target time between two blocks, from 75 to 25 seconds. This interval remains a goal, not a guaranteed duration. Actual times will vary according to mining difficulty adjustments. Zcash thus adapts its production pace.

Zcash adds a network durability mechanism. Starting around February 2031, the protocol will withdraw 60% of transaction fees from circulation. These amounts may fund future mining rewards. This reserve aims to support the network long-term.

Finally, NU7 retains the 21 million ZEC cap and the halving schedule. It also imposes limits on shielded activity. These restrictions reduce synchronization needs for wallets. For Zcash, the changes affect several protocol aspects. Activating NU7 opens a new technical phase for Zcash, but access to Sprout funds remains uncertain. Future developments will reveal whether recovery becomes possible.