Ethereum Layer 2 network Base launched the Beryl upgrade on its testnet, with mainnet deployment scheduled for June 25, 2026. The upgrade introduces protocol enhancements for token issuance, capital efficiency, and network scalability. Base stated Beryl is the network's second major upgrade following Azul, which introduced foundational changes to the Base Stack, and builds on those improvements by adding new functionality and performance upgrades designed to support future growth.
Base Introduces B20 Token Standard With Precompiled Functionality
One of the most large additions is the introduction of B20, a native token standard developed specifically for Base. Unlike conventional ERC-20 tokens that operate through smart contracts, B20 tokens run through precompiled functionality embedded directly into the network's infrastructure. The standard remains fully compatible with existing ERC-20 wallets, exchanges, and applications while offering a more streamlined framework for issuing digital assets.
The new standard is intended to support a wide range of tokenized assets, including stablecoins, real-world assets, and other blockchain-based instruments. Base stated that B20 includes built-in features designed to simplify token management and compliance processes, reducing the need for issuers to develop custom solutions from scratch. The network also introduced dedicated token variants tailored to general-purpose assets and fiat-backed stablecoins.
Base Reduces Withdrawal Finalization Period to Five Days
Beryl reduces the waiting period required to withdraw assets from Base to Ethereum. Under the updated system, the standard withdrawal finalization period will decrease from seven days to five days. Base said the change is intended to improve user experience and allow liquidity providers and bridge operators to deploy capital more efficiently while maintaining network security safeguards.
The upgrade also incorporates Reth V2, the latest version of the high-performance Ethereum execution client used by Base. According to the project, the update significantly lowers storage requirements for network nodes and improves processing efficiency. These optimizations are expected to provide additional capacity for future scaling efforts and support higher transaction throughput without placing additional strain on network infrastructure.
Base Outlines Developer and Node Operator Requirements for Beryl
Base stated that no action is required from regular users apart from benefiting from faster withdrawals once the upgrade becomes active. Developers will be able to experiment with the new B20 token standard, while node operators are expected to update their software before the mainnet activation date.
Base Plans Cobalt Upgrade for September
The company described Beryl as part of a broader roadmap aimed at accelerating innovation on the network. Following its June launch, Base plans to continue development through future upgrades, including the Cobalt release currently targeted for September. Planned enhancements are expected to include native account abstraction capabilities, additional B20 functionality, and further simplification of node operations as the network pursues long-term scaling objectives.
FAQ
What did Base announce on June 18, 2026?
Base announced the launch of the Beryl upgrade on its testnet, with mainnet deployment scheduled for June 25, 2026. The upgrade introduces the B20 token standard, reduces withdrawal finalization periods from seven days to five days, and incorporates Reth V2 for improved node efficiency.
What is the B20 token standard introduced by Base?
B20 is a native token standard developed specifically for Base that runs through precompiled functionality embedded directly into the network's infrastructure. Unlike conventional ERC-20 tokens that operate through smart contracts, B20 remains fully compatible with existing ERC-20 wallets, exchanges, and applications while offering a more streamlined framework for issuing digital assets including stablecoins and real-world assets.
When is Base's Cobalt upgrade scheduled?
Base stated the Cobalt release is currently targeted for September. Planned enhancements are expected to include native account abstraction capabilities, additional B20 functionality, and further simplification of node operations.
