From LayerZero to ZK Layer1, how can Union open up the era of cross-chain interoperability 2.0?

Recently, I have noticed a cross-chain interoperability project Union, a Layer-1 project with ZK interoperability as the core, with the goal of subverting the current cross-chain market structure dominated by LayerZero. The question is, what is the difference between it and other cross-chain interoperability projects and what are the highlights? Will it bring new opportunities to the ZK infra track? Come on, let me talk about some of my observations:

1. It is undeniable that the market demand for cross-chain interoperability is growing rapidly, but existing solutions have their own shortcomings. LayerZero mainly covers the EVM ecosystem, and based on light node verification paths, once led the popularization of cross-chain. Wormhole relies on multi-signature security committees to ensure cross-chain security, while Axelar relies on the verification network to process cross-chain messages.

In contrast, Union does not rely on oracles, multi-signals or MPCs, but directly chooses to use ZK technology to verify inter-chain consensus, providing efficient and scalable interoperability capabilities without sacrificing security.

This hierarchical structure of a clearer interoperability protocol path based on ZK technology allows Union to deeply connect different ecosystems, not only limited to EVM compatibility chains, but also supports a variety of development environments including Solidity, Move, Cosmos, Solang and BitVM. This is obviously much wider than LayerZero, which focuses on the EVM ecosystem.

2. When many people mention ZK technology, the first thing they think of is Layer2 expansion and privacy protection (status proof submitted by Layer 2 to Layer 1). This obviously does not realize the maximum potential of ZK technology, but Union's innovation lies in the application of ZK technology in the field of cross-chain interoperability, expanding the application boundaries of ZK technology.

With the support of ZK technology, it can directly verify the consensus status between different chains without relying on trusted third parties, which is safer and more efficient than traditional cross-chain bridges. Through ZK, Union can realize cross-chain interaction in sub-second level, bringing an almost instant transaction confirmation experience, which can be said to be a disruptive user experience upgrade in cross-chain scenarios.

It is worth mentioning that the test network data shows that Union has processed more than 58 million cross-chain transactions and has 250,000 Dashboard users. It has recently launched App v2 and opened a new test network.

3. Union has also made a big move in the field of BTCFi. According to public information, Union has obtained nine-digit TVL commitments from top LST protocols such as Bedrock, Lombard, Solv, etc. These LSTs will be bridged from Ethereum to Babylon through Union, making it an important asset bridge in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Union also launched the BTCFi Flywheel Flywheel program, jointly creating a revenue ecosystem with Escher (LST), Tower (DEX), and SatLayer (Restaking). The goal is to make BTC truly "live". This strategic positioning not only responds to the current market hotspots, but also establishes a unique competitive advantage for Union in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

In fact, Bitcoin, a chain that naturally lacks programmability, can directly demonstrate the cross-chain application capabilities of ZK technology through ZK connection with other chains. Previously, many projects have tried to use the zkVM paradigm as an expansion solution for the Bitcoin ecosystem based on the zkVM paradigm.

4. It should be added that its financing has also been recognized by many top institutions, and has completed a financing of US$16 million, including gumi Cryptos Capital, LongHash Ventures, Foresight Ventures, Borderless Capital, etc.

Judging from the ecological expansion, Union moves quite quickly. Data shows that more than 40 strategic cooperative relationships have been established and 50 cooperative projects have been attracted. The cooperation objects include Berachain, Polygon, Celestia, Babylon, Scroll, Sui, Avalanche and other leading projects. This is a pretty good result in the current market environment.

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If LayerZero is the representative of the era of cross-chain interoperability 1.0, Union is expected to become a pioneer in cross-chain interoperability 2.0 based on ZK technology. It is trying to build a "on-chain expressway" that connects various homogeneous main chains, L2, Rollups and Appchain, etc., and is committed to becoming an infrastructure channel for inter-chain interoperability.

However, we must also see that it is not easy to truly shake projects like LayerZero that already have a certain market share and ecological depth. Although Union's technical path is advanced, the complexity and maturity of ZK technology itself are also a test. Whether it will be successful in the end depends on the actual performance and the speed of ecological sustainable development after its main network is launched.