Vitalik Buterin outlined a plan to build a “cypherpunk principled non-ugly Ethereum” as an added layer that runs alongside the present system. In his description, the add-on would stay tightly integrated and interoperable, rather than operate as a separate network. At the same time, he framed several goals as base-layer requirements that must apply across the whole network. He pointed to censorship resistance, better compatibility for zero-knowledge proving, and a leaner approach to consensus as properties that cannot be isolated to only one part of the stack. Five-Year Pathway Toward a New System Language Buterin also described a timeline that leaves room for Ethereum to migrate to a new system language in roughly five years. He added that the schedule could move faster if AI-assisted coding and verification tools mature enough to support safer, large-scale changes. He presented the language shift as an “open pathway” rather than an immediate replacement. Under the approach he described, the existing system could remain active while developers gain the option to move older functionality into smart contracts written in the new system’s language, if the network chooses that route later. Upgrade Focus: State Tree, Lean Consensus, ZK-EVM, and VM In the same discussion, Buterin identified four protocol areas he believes could support major overhauls while Ethereum continues operating. He named state tree changes, a “Lean consensus” direction, ZK-EVM verification, and a virtual machine change as the main buckets for that work. He described these as changes that can be introduced gradually, with compatibility maintained during the transition. That approach is meant to keep today’s applications running while new components are introduced and tested in production conditions, rather than requiring a restart of the network. Buterin compared Ethereum’s previous shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake to changing a jet engine mid-flight. He argued that the network’s past ability to execute the Merge supports the view that larger upgrades are feasible without shutting down the chain. Meanwhile, market coverage linked the roadmap discussion to ongoing debates about Ethereum’s scaling direction and the role of layer-2 networks. The bolt-on plan is a way to add new system features while the current environment remains usable for existing builders and users. Ethereum News: ETH Price Tests Layered Demand In the meantime, analyst Ted’s analysis of Ethereum price shows a decisive structural failure from its prior range. The daily chart shows ETH price through stacked supports with minimal reaction. This behavior reflects strong bearish momentum and weak demand above $2,000. The collapse stabilized near the $1,950 band, marking the first meaningful absorption. ETHUSD 1-Day Chart | SOURCE: X The analyst identified a demand zone between $1,740 and $1,850 as the current base. This zone aligns with the last major accumulation before the 2024 rally. Price action now compresses into a wedge-like pattern after the sell-off. Such structures often precede relief rallies or continuation breakdowns. Additionally, Ted outlined that recovery requires a reclaim of $2,070 to shift the structure. Above this level, Ethereum price could rotate toward the $2,400–$2,700 supply. However, failure below $2,000 preserves bearish control and downside risk.
