Ethereum recently introduced an exciting new layer, the ERC-4337 and account abstraction, that offers a new way for users to access the Ethereum network in a trustless and permissionless way. Account abstraction creates what is known as "smart accounts" which are essentially a type of supercharged wallet. Not only does this layer make it possible for users to carry out more complex transactions, it also introduces a network of "Bundlers" and "Paymasters" to the public mempool.

The public mempool is a queue for transactions that are pulled out by the Bundlers for a fee. The Bundlers are essentially specialized actors that assemble the transactions and create what are known as 'profitable blocks' and submit them to the network as a single transaction. They are paid via userpro gas fees for this service.

Although the introduction of ERC-4337 and account abstraction may bring more users to cryptocurrency, it is too soon for far reaching predictions about the impact this new layer will have on gas fees. The technical sophistication of becoming a successful Bundler is quite high. According to Matt Cutler, co-founder and CEO of Blocknative, a core Ethereum infrastructure provider, it will become a competitive market and competing against well funded dev teams will be hard. He also states that the average fees may not significantly change, and if they do, it is likely to be quite slight. Furthermore, he clarified that it is not likely fees will suddenly become much higher or be dropped to zero.

To wrap up, with the introduction of smart accounts, ERC-4337, and account abstraction, Ethereum continues to innovate and make it easier for new users to join the network, however, it may still depend on the proficiency of the Bundler as to whether this process can be profitable and smoothly done.



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