Starknet’s July recap

August will be a pivotal month for Starknet with the launch of v0.14.0, codenamed Grinta, on Mainnet. This release introduces major upgrades aimed at decentralization, faster transaction speeds, and improved user experience. Alongside this, STRK staking programs are expanding, Starknet is connecting to over 140 chains, and new tools and games are enriching the ecosystem.

Key Ideas

Grinta Upgrade: Introduces decentralized sequencers, faster block times (4–6 seconds), pre-confirmations (~0.5s latency), a new fee market, mempool prioritization, and exclusive support for v3 transactions using STRK.
STRK Staking v2: StarkWare and Starknet Foundation are running delegation programs to support validator growth, with 430M STRK already staked.
Web3 UX Enhancements: AVNU’s Paymaster enables gasless transactions; Cavos’ Aegis-v1 supports social login wallets; Ready Mobile wallet offers seamless onboarding.
Cross-Chain Interoperability: Hyperlane integration allows Starknet to connect with 140+ chains; projects like Daydreams and Forge Yields are already building bridges.
Bitcoin Integration: Xverse wallet now supports Starknet; a BTC ATM in El Salvador powered by Starknet offers real-world utility and DeFi access.
Paradex Update: Season 2 XP campaign extended; full product suite and $50M Gigavault cap increase announced.
StarkWare in DeFi: Acquired stake in DREAMS token and is providing liquidity on Ekubo.
JediSwap Shutdown: Users must manually withdraw remaining liquidity.
Developer Tools: OpenZeppelin Contracts MCP now live, simplifying dApp deployment.

10 Gaming Releases: Realms launches Blitz mode; new games and advisors join the ecosystem; Grug Game Jam winners announced.

Alpha Zone Launches: Caddy Finance and Bro Jump go live; five new projects under development including Brove, Panenka FC, SharkX Trading, Numo, and Fortichain.

Why It Matters?

Entrepreneurs should design products that benefit from Starknet’s reduced block times and seamless UX features. They can target Bitcoin users via Xverse wallet integration and explore DeFi opportunities through new vaults and bridges. Participating in STRK staking programs can also help bootstrap validator infrastructure.