Deep Dive
1. Substrate Upgrade (Q3 2025)
Overview
The Root Network will upgrade to Substrate framework version Stable2409-1, improving runtime efficiency and validator node performance. This aligns with Polkadot SDK advancements, enabling faster transaction processing and better developer tooling.
What this means
- Bullish: Enhances network security and scalability, critical for scaling gaming/metaverse apps.
- Risk: Potential short-term downtime during migration (e.g., 24-hour NFT pause in July 2025).
2. IBC Protocol Integration (2025)
Overview
Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) will enable seamless asset/data transfer between The Root Network and connected chains like XRPL and Ethereum. Serves as a precursor to parachain implementation.
What this means
- Bullish: Expands utility for ROOT as a cross-chain hub, attracting multi-chain projects.
- Neutral: Technical complexity may delay full parachain rollout beyond 2025.
3. Decentralized Governance Launch (2025)
Overview
A phased introduction of on-chain voting for protocol changes, treasury management, and validator incentives, reducing reliance on Futureverse’s core team.
What this means
- Bullish: Increased community ownership could drive long-term holder loyalty.
- Risk: Low initial voter participation might slow decision-making.
4. RootRewards Quests (August 2025)
Overview
Builders can design targeted campaigns (e.g., in-game achievements, liquidity mining) that reward users with Root Points (RP). Cycle 5 introduces SYLO staking rewards and a 2x ROOT staking multiplier.
What this means
- Bullish: Drives user retention for dApps; 90M ROOT allocated in Cycle 4 shows robust incentives.
- Metric to watch: RP redemption rates post-Cycle 5 (August–September 2025).
5. NFT Infrastructure Overhaul (Live July 2025)
Overview
Mainnet Update v11.79.0 restructured NFT data storage into separate ownership/token info maps, reducing gas costs for batch operations and improving query speeds.
What this means
- Bullish: Supports high-frequency NFT trading (critical for gaming assets).
- Neutral: Required a 24-hour NFT service pause, now complete.
Conclusion
The Root Network is prioritizing scalability (Substrate/IBC), community empowerment (governance), and user engagement (RootRewards). With TRN Labs incubating builders and Candy Digital’s IP integrations, the ecosystem is poised for cross-platform metaverse growth.
How will decentralized governance reshape ROOT’s tokenomics in 2026?