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Testnet 12.0 is out. Here’s what’s new.

Oct 24, 2023

AI Summary

Here's your AI summary of "Testnet 12.0 is out. Here’s what’s new." on Aleph Zero blog

Top 10 key takeaways:

  1. Aleph Node 12.0 Release: The new version is now available for Testnet validators and will undergo 4-6 weeks of testing before Mainnet deployment.

  2. Contracts Pallet and Block Sync Improvements: Modifications have been made to the contracts pallet and internal block sync request mechanism for enhanced performance.

  3. Staking Mechanism Overhaul: The staking mechanism has been significantly updated. New users will no longer be able to assign a separate controller account; a single account will now serve as both stash and controller.

  4. Existing Users Unaffected: Current users with controller accounts can continue using them without any changes.

  5. Proxy Pallet Introduction: The update sets the stage for the upcoming proxy pallet, which will simplify staking-related tasks such as bonding and unbonding, even when the stash is offline.

  6. Testnet Validators Update Required: Validators are urged to update their nodes to Aleph Node 12.0 as soon as possible.

  7. New Update Procedure: Due to changes in the aleph-node-runner, the update procedure is different this time. Validators should follow the instructions in the Release Notes.

  8. Detailed Changelog Available: For more specific details, validators and users can refer to the Release Notes.

  9. Support Channels: Aleph Zero team is available on Discord and Telegram to assist with any questions or concerns.

  10. Feedback Encouraged: User feedback and questions are highly valued and encouraged by the Aleph Zero team.

AI Summary

Today, we’ve launched Aleph Node version 12.0 on our Testnet. There are new improvements to the platform’s capabilities and staking. Here’s all you need to know!

What’s New in Aleph Node 12.0?

Aleph Node 12.0 is now available for Testnet validators. It will follow the standard procedure of testing over the next 4–6 weeks before being pushed to the Mainnet.

Here are the key changes introduced.

Changes to Contracts Pallet and Internal Block Sync Request Mechanism:

We’ve modified the contracts pallet, and the internal block sync request mechanism to ensure better performance.

Major Shift in Stash and Controller Staking Mechanism:

The most significant improvement happens around the staking mechanism. From now on, when you decide to stake your AZERO, you won’t have the option to assign a separate controller account. Instead, a single account will serve the dual role of both stash and controller.

Important note: Nothing has changed for users that use controller accounts now–you can still use them. Only new users won’t be able to set up their controller accounts anymore. The update is live only on the Testnet.

This adjustment is not arbitrary; it paves the way for the debut of the proxy pallet, set to be included in the next release.

The update will introduce proxy accounts and simplify staking-related tasks like bonding and unbonding, allowing to perform these actions even when the stash is offline.

For a more detailed Changelog, head over to the Release Notes.

Testnet Validators – update your nodes!

Testnet validators can now download Aleph Node 12.0 and upgrade their nodes–we ask all of you to perform the update at your earliest convenience.

NOTE! Due to the recent rework of aleph-node-runner, the update procedure this time is different than usual. To update your node to the recent version, please follow the instructions at the end of Release Notes.

Have questions?

We are always available, both on Discord and Telegram, to assist with any questions or concerns you might have. Your feedback and questions are vital to us; please don’t hesitate to connect!