Infrastructure
BNB Chain Plans High-Performance EVM Layer-1 Blockchain with CZ's Support
BNB Chain has announced plans to create a new layer-1 blockchain, provisionally named NewL1, designed to achieve transaction speeds comparable to centralized exchanges. The updated documentation, released on October 22, 2026, outlines ambitious performance targets, including a 200 ms block interval and sub-second transaction finality.
Technical Goals and Features
The NewL1 blockchain aims to support latency-sensitive applications such as high-frequency trading and AI-driven activities. Key performance metrics include:
- 200 ms block interval, enabling five blocks per second.
- Approximately 20 ms pre-confirmations for faster transaction processing.
- Full transaction finality targeted at under one second.
- Throughput exceeding 100,000 transactions per second.
To achieve these goals, BNB Chain will utilize an enhanced version of its existing consensus mechanism, Parlia, and implement features like native account abstraction and a shielded privacy pool.
Current Status and Future Plans
As of now, NewL1 is operational as an internal development network, with a public testnet expected by late 2026 and a full mainnet rollout projected for early 2027. BNB Chain emphasizes that NewL1 will complement its existing infrastructure rather than replace it, with BNB remaining the sole token for gas fees, staking, and governance across both BSC and NewL1.
Implications for Traders and AI Applications
If successful, NewL1 could significantly enhance on-chain trading experiences, making them more competitive with centralized exchanges while allowing users to maintain self-custody of their assets. The roadmap also identifies autonomous trading agents as a key target user base, highlighting the importance of fast and reliable transaction settlements.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the NewL1 blockchain being developed by BNB Chain?
The NewL1 blockchain aims to achieve high transaction speeds comparable to centralized exchanges, targeting latency-sensitive applications such as high-frequency trading and AI-driven activities.
What are the key performance metrics for NewL1?
NewL1 aims for a 200 ms block interval, sub-second transaction finality, approximately 20 ms pre-confirmations, and a throughput exceeding 100,000 transactions per second.
When is the public testnet and mainnet rollout for NewL1 expected?
The public testnet is expected by late 2026, with a full mainnet rollout projected for early 2027.
Will NewL1 replace the existing BNB Chain infrastructure?
No, NewL1 is designed to complement the existing infrastructure, with BNB remaining the sole token for gas fees, staking, and governance across both BSC and NewL1.
Who are the target users for the NewL1 blockchain?
The roadmap identifies autonomous trading agents and traders as key target user bases, emphasizing the importance of fast and reliable transaction settlements.