Ethereum’s next big upgrade has 66 proposals, including a major privacy fix
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Summary
Ethereum developers are evaluating 66 proposals for the blockchain's next major upgrade, called Hegotá, expected to launch in 2027. Among these is a key privacy-related proposal named Frame Transactions (EIP-8141), which would allow users to customize transaction approval, execution, and payment methods. This proposal, together with related ones called Keyed Nonces (EIP-8250) and EIP-8272, aims to reduce reliance on external infrastructure for private payments while keeping standard ETH transfers transparent. So far, only one proposal—a censorship-resistance measure called FOCIL—has been approved.
Why it matters
Frame Transactions and its companion proposals could simplify how private transactions are handled directly on Ethereum, reducing the need for third-party services and potentially enhancing privacy for sensitive use cases like payroll or treasury operations. However, the network itself will remain transparent for normal ETH transfers. Decisions on which proposals to include will shape Ethereum’s capabilities and user experience for years to come.
Key context
Ethereum addresses are permanent and transparent by design, exposing a full transaction history and balances, which complicates privacy for users needing discretion. Currently, privacy solutions depend heavily on applications built on top of Ethereum using external relayers to process private transactions. The Hegotá upgrade could integrate some privacy functionalities into the protocol itself, a step beyond current methods. The deadline for submitting new proposals passed on August 6, and core developers will determine in upcoming meetings which will proceed.
Key numbers and entities
Hegotá upgrade, scheduled for 2027; 66 proposals submitted; Frame Transactions (EIP-8141); Keyed Nonces (EIP-8250); EIP-8272; FOCIL (approved censorship-resistance proposal); Toni Wahrstätter, Ethereum Foundation researcher and co-author of Frame Transactions; Glamsterdam, an upgrade expected this year preceding Hegotá.
What remains unclear
Frame Transactions and related proposals have been marked as considered for Hegotá but have not yet been approved. The Ethereum core developers will decide which proposals realistically can be built, tested, and shipped within the upgrade timeline during forthcoming meetings. The source does not specify which other proposals might be approved or the detailed timeline for decisions beyond the broad timeframe.