ArcBlock is preparing a November upgrade to its blockchain infrastructure and Ethereum bridge, introducing changes designed to simplify network access, improve the user experience, and reduce transaction-related costs. The upgrade will temporarily place the blockchain in read-only mode, and the transition is expected to proceed without requiring users to migrate their assets or applications manually.

The planned changes also include a redesigned web interface for the Ethereum bridge and the elimination of protocol-level fees. Users transferring assets through Ethereum will, however, continue to pay the network's standard gas fees.

The announcement was made via ArcBlock's official X account on November 9, 2026:

We plan to upgrade the ArcBlock blockchain this month: • Brief read-only cutover with no manual migration required • Fully compatible with existing wallets and dApps • Overhauled Ethereum-ArcBlock Bridge: moving to a new web-based UI with no DID Wallet multi-stage steps and zero Bridge protocol fees (Ethereum gas still applies) Note: Legacy DID Wallet Bridge will retire after the upgrade, with a possible brief handoff window. Details: — ArcBlock (@ArcBlock_io) November 9, 2026

Temporary Read-Only Period During the Blockchain Upgrade

As part of the scheduled upgrade, ArcBlock's blockchain will briefly operate in read-only mode. During this period, users will be able to access existing blockchain information, while normal write operations may be temporarily restricted until the infrastructure transition is completed.

The project has indicated that the upgrade will not require manual migration. This approach is intended to reduce the operational burden on existing participants and simplify the transition to the updated network infrastructure. Avoiding manual migration could also help reduce the risk of user errors and disruptions associated with moving assets or applications between different network environments.

The temporary restrictions are expected to form part of the technical transition rather than a permanent change to the blockchain's functionality. Once the upgrade is completed, the network is expected to resume normal operations under the updated infrastructure. According to the announcement, the new setup will also be fully compatible with existing wallets and decentralized applications, meaning no user-side changes should be needed for the cutover.

The announcement described the upgrade only as happening "this month" and did not specify an exact date or duration for the read-only period; the post instead directed readers to a details page linked in the announcement for further information.

Ethereum Bridge to Receive a New Interface

Another significant component of the November upgrade involves ArcBlock's Ethereum bridge, which will receive a redesigned web interface intended to make cross-chain interactions more accessible and straightforward.

Blockchain bridges enable users to transfer assets and information between separate blockchain networks. They play an important role in decentralized finance and other blockchain applications by connecting otherwise independent ecosystems.

The updated interface is expected to simplify the process of interacting with Ethereum through ArcBlock's infrastructure, replacing the multi-stage steps previously handled through the DID Wallet. The project will also remove the protocol fees charged by its bridge, a change that could reduce the additional costs associated with cross-chain transfers and make the service more attractive to users and developers.

However, the removal of protocol fees does not mean that all transactions will become free. Ethereum network gas fees will remain applicable, because transactions processed on the Ethereum blockchain continue to require network resources and validator participation. Users will therefore still need to account for Ethereum's transaction costs when transferring assets through the bridge.

ArcBlock further noted that the legacy DID Wallet bridge will retire after the upgrade, with a possible brief handoff window during the transition. Once the retirement takes effect, cross-chain transfers through ArcBlock's infrastructure will be handled by the new web-based interface, as the wallet-based multi-step flow will no longer be available.

ArcBlock Focuses on Multi-Chain Application Development

ArcBlock is a blockchain development platform designed to simplify the creation and deployment of decentralized applications, commonly known as DApps. Its infrastructure provides developers with tools, services, and standards intended to reduce the technical complexity of building blockchain-based applications. More information about the platform is available on its official website.

One of its key components is Blocklet OS, which incorporates Blocklets, a microservice-based framework for blockchain applications. This approach allows developers to use familiar programming libraries and conventional development tools without relying exclusively on specialized blockchain development instruments.

ArcBlock also supports integration with multiple blockchain networks, including Ethereum and Hyperledger. This multi-chain approach is intended to give developers greater flexibility when building applications that interact with different distributed ledger environments. Its Open Chain Access Protocol further supports the development of applications capable of connecting with multiple blockchain networks, an architecture designed to improve interoperability and reduce dependence on a single blockchain ecosystem.

Marketplace and ABT Token Support the Ecosystem

ArcBlock also operates a marketplace that facilitates the exchange of services, software components, and blockchain-related resources. The platform is intended to support developers in accessing the infrastructure and tools needed to build and distribute decentralized applications.

The ecosystem is supported by the ABT token, which serves as its primary digital asset. The token is designed to facilitate network-related activities, including payments, participant compensation, and other platform operations.

The November upgrade represents another step in ArcBlock's efforts to improve its blockchain infrastructure and cross-chain services. Its success will depend on the smooth completion of the technical transition, the performance of the redesigned Ethereum bridge, and the platform's ability to deliver a simpler, more cost-efficient experience for network participants. The nature and length of the handoff window for the retiring DID Wallet bridge was not specified in the announcement, making it one of the practical details to follow as the rollout progresses.

This article was originally published on CoinTrust.