Ethereum devs release client software for Pectra upgrade on testnets; mainnet launch expected in April

Ethereum developers released client software tailored for Pectra deployment on Holesky and Sepolia testnets — ahead of the mainnet launch, which is expected in April.

The client releases for various consensus and execution layers were made available today.

Before an upgrade is implemented on the mainnet, developers would deploy updates on a test network to ensure the software works appropriately without risking real assets.

The upgrade will be tested first on Holesky on Feb. 24, followed by Sepolia on March 5. These tests simulate network conditions, analyze performance, ensure compatibility, and fix any issues before rolling out to the main network.

An All Core Developers (ACD) call is scheduled for March 6 to finalize the mainnet upgrade date, currently expected for April 8 — but this could shift based on testnet outcomes. Developers had previously targeted March for Pectra’s rollout on the mainnet.

Pectra is a major upgrade to the Ethereum network, aiming to improve the network’s capabilities, particularly in terms of scalability, security, and user experience. Pectra contains the highest number of Ethereum Improvement Proposals to date.

The changes include improving user experience in crypto wallets and account abstraction (EIP-7702), increasing the maximum validator stake limit from 32 to 2,048 ETH (EIP-7251), and doubling the max blob count to boost rollup scalability (EIP-7691).