Base, the Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, has introduced three new features to improve its transaction speeds, increase scalability, and make it simpler to use.
For speed, Base introduced flashblocks technology, which reduces block time from 2 seconds to just 200 milliseconds. Developers can start testing this feature on the Base Sepolia testnet today, and they will be rolled out on the mainnet in Q2.
For scalability, Base launched app chains, layer-3 chains designed for apps that need to scale efficiently. They provide dedicated blockspace and are built with the op-enclave framework, making them suitable for high-traffic applications. Appchains can be customized, and they’re supported by robust infrastructure, allowing developers to manage their applications more effectively.
Finally, Base added Smart Wallet Sub Accounts to allow management of multiple onchain accounts from a single wallet, reducing the need for multiple login processes. It also minimizes pop-ups. This feature is also available on the Base testnet now and will launch on the mainnet in Q2.
If Base’s new features drive more DeFi, NFT, and gaming applications going forward, demand for Ethereum (ETH), which is used for transactions and gas fees on Base, could rise. Since Base isn’t planning to introduce its own token, this is good news for Ethereum.
Even before this upgrade, Base is considerably faster than Ethereum. Ethereum’s average block time is around 12 seconds, while Base’s new flashblocks technology reduces block time to just 200 milliseconds. In terms of TPS speed, Base is also almost 7X times faster than Ethereum.
While Base’s new features significantly enhance transaction processing speed and scalability, there are also potential concerns.
Most notably, the rapid block production enabled by flashblocks (200ms block times) raises potential security risks, such as increased orphaned blocks. Orphaned blocks occur when two miners or validators produce blocks at almost the same time. In this case, one of the blocks will eventually be discarded as the chain is restructured to include only one of the competing blocks. Orphaned blocks don’t just waste computational power, but can also provide more opportunities for malicious actors to exploit the network.
As for Smart Wallet Sub Accounts, they could also introduce security risks if a single compromised wallet grants access to multiple accounts.
Finally, app chains introduce added complexity for developers who must ensure interoperability and security across multiple Layer 3 chains.
