The Core blockchain is geared up for the activation of the Theseus Hardfork, a significant protocol upgrade focused on improving transparency, revenue distribution, and developer tooling. After extensive internal testing, the hardfork will go live on Core Testnet2 on May 30, 2025, at 08:00 AM UTC.
The Theseus hardfork is an essential milestone in Core’s journey toward a more modular and incentive-aligned ecosystem.
Theseus Hardfork Timeline
- Testnet2 Activation: May 30, 2025 at 08:00 AM UTC
- Mainnet Activation: To be announced
What’s Included in Theseus
1. Core’s Protocol-Level Fee Sharing Mechanism
The Theseus Hardfork introduces Core’s native contract-based protocol-level fee-sharing framework. It enables configurable, on-chain revenue splits directly from transaction gas fees among different stakeholders, especially stablecoin issuers and dApp developers.
This model is designed to align ecosystem incentives, drive adoption, and create new revenue models across the Core network.
Note: No contracts will be configured for this upgrade by default at the time of the hardfork. Developers are encouraged to test and prepare for integration.
2. Live Chain Tracing with Hooks
Theseus hardfork introduces native support for real-time transaction tracing, enabling developers and monitoring systems to hook into transaction-level events as they happen.
3. Merged Versions up to BSC v1.4.10
The Theseus hardfork also incorporates improvements and updates by merging versions up to v1.4.10 from BNB Smart Chain.
Mandatory Upgrade for Node Operators
The Theseus Hardfork is a mandatory upgrade for all Core Testnet2 validators and full node operators, requiring them to upgrade their node software to v1.0.16.
Upgrade deadline: Before May 30, 2025, 08:00 AM UTC
How to Upgrade:
- Download the release from the official Core GitHub Releases repository
- Follow the upgrade instructions provided in the official documentation
- Ensure your node is fully synced and functioning post-upgrade
Developer and dApp Considerations
- No breaking changes for most dApps or wallets
- Apps using eth_estimateGas will function as expected
Special Note for Projects with Hardcoded Gas Settings:
If you are using development frameworks like Foundry, Hardhat, or Brownie with fixed gas values:
- Increase gas limits when interacting with contracts that integrate this new upgrade.
- Use
--gas-estimate-multiplier(suggested: 200–500) - Always use the
--legacy flag, as Core continues to use legacy transaction formatting - Test thoroughly on Testnet2 to ensure compatibility
Why Upgrade?
Running the latest software ensures uninterrupted operation, access to new features, and alignment with the network’s latest protocols. Failing to upgrade may lead to syncing issues or node disconnection.
Resources
Looking Ahead
Stay tuned for more updates on the timeline for the activation of the Theseus hardfork on the Core Mainnet. If you have any queries, drop them below or contact the Core Discord for additional support.