 ▲ Ethereum (ETH)/ChatGPT-generated image |
Ethereum (ETH) is pushing to strengthen privacy technology through the use of a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM). However, criticism has emerged that delays in adopting a core component, the Poseidon Hash, are making it difficult for the network to close the technological gap with competing chains.
According to cryptocurrency-focused media outlet U.Today on February 27 (local time), developer Ameen Soleimani pointed out that the Ethereum Foundation has shown a passive stance toward officially introducing the Poseidon precompile function. Soleimani argued that the absence of Poseidon Hash, an essential tool for zero-knowledge proofs and privacy, is hindering technological progress across the network.
Poseidon Hash is a zero-knowledge-friendly algorithm that can be up to 100 times more efficient than the traditional SHA256 hashing method when operating within zero-knowledge proof circuits. Currently, implementing zero-knowledge proofs in the Ethereum Virtual Machine environment incurs massive gas costs due to constraints related to 256-bit integer operations and elliptic curve support, ultimately increasing users’ transaction burdens. Soleimani warned that if Ethereum neglects this technological gap, it could fall behind other blockchains in the field of privacy.
Soleimani expressed dissatisfaction with the stalled pace of development, stating, “For Ethereum to narrow the privacy gap and compete with other blockchains, technical upgrades such as the Poseidon precompile are essential.” He cited the continued delay in adopting Poseidon Hash as a reason why costs required for processing private transactions remain excessively high. This situation ultimately makes it difficult for ordinary users to conduct transactions securely while protecting their privacy on the network.
Within the Ethereum community, the criticism is expected to reignite active discussions about introducing zero-knowledge-friendly primitives. Soleimani emphasized that for Ethereum to evolve into an ecosystem equipped with genuine privacy features, innovation must occur at the foundational infrastructure level beyond mere language compatibility. Observers note that the longer the foundation-level decision-making is delayed, the more network complexity will increase and the further the emergence of innovative applications will be postponed.
Soleimani’s criticism serves as a reminder of the urgent tasks Ethereum must address to maintain its technological edge. The absence of efficient tools such as Poseidon Hash goes beyond simple performance degradation and negatively affects overall network scalability and user experience. As Ethereum has positioned zero-knowledge technology as a core component of its future roadmap, developers’ calls to reinforce related infrastructure are expected to grow louder.
Disclaimer: This article is for investment reference only and we are not responsible for any investment losses resulting from it. The content should be interpreted for informational purposes only.