OpenVM: A Game-Changing zkVM Framework for Instant Proving
The world of blockchain technology is constantly evolving, with new advancements and innovations being introduced regularly. One such groundbreaking development is the announcement of OpenVM, an open-source zkVM framework for instant proving, by Scroll, Axiom, developer Max Gillet, and the Ethereum Foundation’s Privacy & Scaling Explorations (PSE) team.
OpenVM is set to revolutionize the way zkVMs operate, with Scroll L2 adopting it as its zkVM and planning to validate mainnet blocks in the coming months. This transition will elevate Scroll from a Type-3 to a Type-1 zkEVM, making it the most fully Ethereum-equivalent zkEVM type.
Furthermore, Scroll’s upgrade to a Stage-1 rollup with a fully functioning proof system is on the horizon, promising increased efficiency and security for users. The decision to design a new zkVM from scratch was driven by the belief that existing solutions were too restrictive and did not allow for flexibility and innovation.
The modular architecture of OpenVM will enable Scroll to introduce new features without making significant changes to the underlying circuit. This will also benefit developers, as they can leverage zkVM improvements without having to modify their application code, streamlining the development process.
The state of zkVMs is currently bustling with activity, with numerous players in the market offering solutions like RISC Zero “RISC0” and Succinct’s “SP1.” The rise of zk rollups like Linea, ZKsync, and Scroll has seen a peak in proofs submitted to the Ethereum mainnet, showcasing the growing popularity of these technologies.
Proof volumes may have seen a slight decline in 2024, but this can be attributed to the adoption of recursive proof aggregation and more efficient proof verification processes. Additionally, prover networks like Risc Zero’s “Boundless” and Fermah have helped reduce zk-proving costs, making it more accessible to developers and applications.
According to Electric Capital’s recent developer report, there are over 2,000 monthly active developers working in zk, indicating a significant interest and investment in this technology. The deployment of zk contracts has also seen a substantial increase over the last four years, showcasing the growing adoption and potential of zkVMs.
In conclusion, OpenVM is set to reshape the zkVM landscape, offering a more flexible and efficient solution for developers and applications. With the continued growth and development in this space, the future of zk technology looks promising and full of potential. Subscribe to the 0xResearch newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments in the blockchain world.