The Ethereum Foundation has launched the Mekong testnet to preview features of the upcoming Pectra fork in 2025.

The new testnet will provide a controlled environment to thoroughly sample new Ethereum protocol updates, including the highly-anticipated Pectra upgrade, before full integration into the mainnet.

Ethereum Launches Short-Term Mekong Testnet for Pectra’s EIPs

Announced on November 7, Mekong aims to prepare users for key changes to Ethereum’s user experience (UX) and staking system in preparation for the hard fork in early 2025. The reveal of Mekong is part of Ethereum’s broader strategy to maintain a strong position in blockchain, especially as competitors, including Solana, push forward their own upgrades.

This preview is especially relevant considering transaction processing speeds and fees, as the mainnet can be an issue for meme coin enthusiasts. Simply, gas fees are much higher than what Solana or Ethereum layer-2 options provide.

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Mekong provides a testing environment for developers to explore UX upgrades before they reach the mainnet. Stakers can also actively experiment with updated staking workflows that are set to debut in Pectra. This testnet includes all Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) planned for the Pectra upgrade.

Some minor adjustments may occur before these features move to other public testnets. However, Ethereum’s structured testing approach aims to speed up the upgrade cycle and reduce disruptions for end users and applications on the network.

Tim Beiko, Ethereum Foundation’s protocol support lead, described Mekong as a “pre-Devcon treat.” The name “Mekong” honors the river that flows through Southeast Asia, tying Ethereum’s development to the region’s landmarks.

The Ethereum Foundation encourages active testing and feedback from developers and stakers on the platform. For stakers, Mekong offers a first look at new deposit and exit mechanisms, revealing the Pectra changes before their mainnet release.

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This testnet is separate from Ethereum’s mainnet and existing testnets like Holesky and Sepolia. Unlike previous testnets, the new testnet will launch briefly and then be unwound. Insights from testing will help guide the final Pectra upgrade rollout across Ethereum’s broader network next year.