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IOTA is officially launching its highly anticipated Rebased network upgrade on May 5, 2025. Dubbed a new era for the IOTA ecosystem, this upgrade marks the transition from the Stardust network to what is now being called the IOTA network—a rebased infrastructure with no need for token migration, streamlined wallet access, and a focus on long-term scalability.
The transition kicks off with a carefully orchestrated “Genesis Ceremony,” involving 13 validators that include major industry players like the IOTA Foundation, Twinstake, Stakin, and Nansen. This ceremony will capture and verify the final state of the Stardust ledger before initiating the new network, ensuring a smooth transition and transparent record-keeping. Once the validation checkpoint is signed by all initial participants, the genesis data will be publicly distributed to launch the new mainnet.
What Changes for Users?
For IOTA token holders, the good news is no token migration is required. Existing wallet access remains intact via private keys, mnemonic phrases, or stronghold files from wallets like Firefly and Bloom. However, the legacy Firefly wallet will be replaced with a new browser extension, complemented by a modern wallet dashboard for managing vesting schedules, staking, and other assets.
IOTA has ensured compatibility with Ledger devices, although the now-deprecated Ledger Nano S will require manual setup using the new IOTA Ledger app. Enhanced security and usability are at the core of this upgrade, promising a frictionless experience for both new and existing users.
A Robust Validator Network and Future Expansion
While the network launches with just 13 validators, IOTA plans to onboard approximately 10 new validators per day following the launch. The goal is to hit 50 validators within the first week and 150 validators over the coming months—paving the way for greater decentralization and resilience.
The ecosystem will also benefit from the return of IOTA EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) services, which are expected to resume 4 to 8 hours post-launch. This enables seamless interaction with dApps and token transfers via MetaMask and the upcoming IOTA EVM Bridge Web App.
Tools for Transparency and Control
IOTA is introducing two powerful explorer tools—explorer.rebased.iota.org and IOTAscan.com—to provide real-time tracking of validator performance, smart contract activity, and transaction history. These tools are instrumental in reinforcing the network’s commitment to transparency and user empowerment.
Also Read: IOTA Rebased Fueling Africa’s Web3 Boom with Game-Changing Sui Network Alliance
As the countdown to May 5 begins, all eyes are on IOTA to see how this ambitious upgrade will redefine its role in the blockchain space. With a bold shift toward decentralization, intuitive wallets, and high validator throughput, the Rebased IOTA network could become a blueprint for next-generation blockchain infrastructure.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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