Author: YBB Capital Researcher Ac - Core

Introduction:

EVM + is an advanced model specifically designed to drive the further development of the Ethereum Virtual Machine to better adapt to the rapidly changing cryptocurrency landscape. In this model, as innovations and productivity from Web2 gradually integrate into Web3, practical technologies such as artificial intelligence, DePIN, and DeFi security are also rapidly being integrated into crypto applications. EVM + provides a brand new solution by seamlessly integrating EVM assets, protocols, and infrastructure, which not only promotes the development of large-scale applications but also accelerates the convergence of cryptocurrencies with mainstream applications. It enhances the scalability of the blockchain by implementing EVM + WASM on-chain native extensions and further optimizes the blockchain's processing capacity by supporting parallel EVM execution.

According to Techandtips123, parallel EVM is like organizing a party with division of labor. Suppose you need to prepare for a move with everyone taking on different roles: A transports large luggage, B transports valuable items, C is responsible for moving items, and D takes care of the hygiene layout of the new venue. This division of labor allows the entire task to be completed by four people, greatly saving time and improving efficiency.

The concept of parallel EVM is similar; it performs by distributing computational tasks to multiple execution units. In the Ethereum network, many participants process different transactions simultaneously, with each transaction acting like an independent task, such as a transfer or generating new tokens. Each participant independently handles a task on the EVM, just like independent computer programs running on the blockchain. Once completed, the results of these tasks are aggregated back to the network to form the final block. When a single executor cannot independently handle a large number of transactions, the speed decreases, and the difficulty of use increases. The introduction of parallel EVM aims to solve this problem by allowing multiple executors to process different transactions simultaneously, enabling the network to handle more transactions faster, reducing congestion and related costs.

The Idea of Introducing a New "Layer":

Image Source: Artela --- From EVM + to EVM ++

Vitalik Buterin pointed out: "L2 is for scaling, L3 is for custom features, such as privacy protection. In this vision, no one is trying to provide 'scalability squared'; rather, there is a layer in the stack to help applications scale, while another layer meets the custom feature needs of different use cases."

In Vitalik's vision for Ethereum, the "layer" that addresses non-scaling needs clearly plays an important role. His perspective emphasizes the necessity for blockchain networks to support "custom features." For Ethereum, a potential way to meet this demand could be to establish a new layer, while Artela adds "native extensions" on top of the foundational layer.

In terms of blockchain, functionality refers to the ability to support various applications. The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), as the runtime engine supporting smart contracts, is the mainstream model for creating DApps to achieve functionality. The EVM was originally proposed by Ethereum and has since been adopted by many smart contract chains, commonly referred to as EVM-compatible chains or EVM-equivalent chains. However, the current EVM has proven to be limited in supporting the scaling functionality of DApps. The key challenge lies in how to expand the functional boundaries within EVM chains. There are two practical directions for improvement:

• Replace EVM with a better virtual machine;
• Strengthen EVM through supplemental extensions.

The first approach circumvents the limitations of EVM but requires abandoning EVM-based smart contracts. MoveVM and FuelVM are examples of this implementation. While more advanced virtual machines may be needed in the future, they will take considerable time to reach the same level of maturity and popularity as EVM.

The second approach is to introduce a new stack that enhances EVM through "extensions." The goal is to push the functional limits of EVM beyond its original specifications while maintaining EVM equivalence. This approach enhances DApp functionality on top of the existing EVM infrastructure. Exploring EVM enhancements opens up exciting possibilities and ongoing innovations in DApp functionality, leading to significant emerging innovations.

Artela:

EVM+ in the Artela Network

Artela's mission is to create a foundational layer blockchain network to meet the growing demand for large-scale decentralized applications. Artela's innovative design allows developers to create native extensions in a modular manner above the blockchain foundational layer, thereby improving the programmability of the blockchain. This approach will help developers implement custom features in a lightweight and dynamic way, opening the door to faster innovation and more possibilities.

Artela has an extension layer that allows the addition of locally defined extension modules called Aspect, which enhances programmability while ensuring compatibility with existing EVM smart contracts. Aspect allows developers to inject additional logic throughout the entire transaction lifecycle outside of smart contracts to handle transactions and related blocks.

Artela has built a highly scalable EVM + network that leverages Aspect programming (see extension link 1) and introduces a WASM virtual machine compatible with EVM networks, allowing for dynamic addition and execution of on-chain extension programs. EVM + enables developers to build high-performance protocols, modular DApps, and customize underlying functionalities for specific scenarios.

Image Source: Artela Official

During the DevNet and Public Testnet phases, Artela collaborated with community developers to explore the potential of the EVM + network, resulting in imaginative use cases:

• Utilizing WASM as an on-chain co-processor to facilitate the execution of AI agent algorithms and other high-performance modules directly on the blockchain while ensuring seamless interoperability with the EVM system;
• Participating in on-chain AI agents for autonomous worlds, achieving truly programmable on-chain NPCs that can interact with users;
• Optional on-chain security modules for real-time execution, allowing DeFi protocols to instantly identify and recover suspicious transactions.

A new era is approaching that can fully realize on-chain protocols, AI, and secure DeFi while maintaining compatibility and interoperability with the EVM world.

From EVM+ to EVM++

Artela's vision is to establish an infinitely scalable network, with EVM + being not the final goal but a starting point. The next step for Artela is EVM ++, a parallel EVM + network that can fully unleash the potential of scalable blockchains. EVM + releases the scalability of EVM, designed to adapt to the new cryptocurrency world where the productivity and innovation of Web2, along with practical technologies such as AI, DePIN, and fintech, are rapidly integrating into DApps. EVM ++ unleashes the scalability of EVM, enabling this highly creative network to further promote the large-scale application of DApps and accelerate the integration of cryptocurrencies with mainstream applications.

EVM++ Parallel Resilient EVM Network

Artela's parallel EVM ++ will be implemented in two phases.

The first phase involves the parallel execution of transactions under EVM +. Artela's network not only implements basic parallel EVM but also addresses the challenges of parallel execution under EVM + Aspect, which is an extension running on the WASM virtual machine that can be invoked during the transaction lifecycle.

In the second phase, Artela will leverage parallel capabilities and combine them with elastic computing to achieve elastic block space, a dynamic mechanism that allows DApps to maximize the advantages of parallel execution.

Overview of Parallel EVM

Artela's horizontally scalable architecture is designed around parallel execution, ensuring the scalability of network node computing power through elastic computing, ultimately achieving elastic block space.

• Parallel Execution: Transactions on Artela can be executed in parallel. The Artela network groups transactions for parallel execution based on transaction dependency conflict analysis;
• Elastic Computing: Validator nodes support horizontal scaling, and the network automatically adjusts the computing nodes of validators based on current network load or subscription conditions. The scaling process is coordinated by an elastic protocol to ensure there are enough elastic computing nodes in the consensus network;
• Elastic Block Space: Based on elastic computing, in addition to expanding public block space, large DApps with independent block space requirements can also apply for dedicated elastic block space within the network.

"Elastic Block Space"

Elastic block space refers to dynamically expandable block space that provides dedicated block space with protocol guarantees for DApps with high transaction throughput demands. By default, the capacity of public block space in blocks is limited. When a DApp applies for independent block space, the block will increase additional space that only accommodates transactions related to the DApp's smart contracts. As block space expands, validators need to increase elastic execution nodes to expand the corresponding processing capacity.

Elastic block space is a scalability mechanism for blockchains that achieves infinite scalability while maintaining interoperability. Sharded blockchains, application chain networks, Layer 2, and other scalable networks can also provide independent block space, but isolation and block generation are not synchronized. Elastic block space allows DApps with independent block space to synchronize interactions through atomic transactions within the same block, avoiding the need for asynchronous cross-chain communication.

When DApps in the Artela network require high scalability, they can subscribe to elastic block space to handle increased throughput. Elastic block space and native extensions provide scalability and customization for DApps in Artela.

Artela Enhances DApp Functionality Using Native Extensions

By leveraging Aspect programming, developers can create native extensions (see extension link 2) that incorporate custom functionalities into DApps above all blockchain foundational layers and combine them with existing EVM smart contracts to enhance DApp functionality.

Image Source Author: Joshua Esin

1. Enhanced Scalability:

One of the advantages of Aspect programming in Artela is its unparalleled scalability. Traditional smart contracts often face limitations when modifying or extending functionalities. Artela's Aspect programming overcomes this barrier by providing a modular and scalable framework. Developers can seamlessly extend the functionality of existing contracts without modifying their core logic. This scalability paves the way for more agile and scalable DApp development.

2. Improved Security:

In the evolving field of blockchain security, Artela's Aspect Programming introduces a paradigm shift. Unlike traditional white-box security measures, Aspect programming provides a complementary black-box security solution. Real-time monitoring, proactive risk mitigation, and runtime behavior analysis help establish a robust security framework that prevents vulnerabilities and ensures protocol continuity.

3. On-Chain Intent Resolver:

Artela's Aspect Programming introduces the revolutionary concept of an on-chain intent resolver. Traditionally, users needed to specify detailed function calls to execute transactions; with the on-chain intent resolver, users can express their desired outcomes in human-readable language, resulting in a more intuitive and customizable experience. For example, users can specify their intent as "exchange X ETH for Y USDC," eliminating the need to call complex functions.

4. Just-In-Time (JIT) Operations:

JIT operations are a powerful concept widely applied in various scenarios, gaining flexibility through Artela's Aspect Programming. Executing on-chain logic within the block lifecycle and combining it with smart contracts in atomic transactions opens up possibilities for JIT settlement, JIT LP management, and MEV capturing AMM strategies.

5. Native Event-Driven Actions:

Native event-driven operations in Artela enable users to subscribe to real-time on-chain events, triggering atomic tasks. This feature helps maintain consistency between on-chain and off-chain states, achieving asynchronous cross-chain message notifications and enhancing blockchain automation.

6. Full-Chain Gaming:

Artela's Aspect Programming extends its influence into the gaming realm, providing developers with tools to enhance the programmability of in-game assets. With Artela, gaming equipment NFTs can be upgraded through programmability, ushering in a new era of multifunctional user experiences within the gaming ecosystem.

7. OnChain MicroServices:

Artela enables the creation of public on-chain services within the blockchain network, facilitating collective maintenance and governance by different users and organizations. This model promotes resource sharing, collaborative innovation, reduces development barriers, and contributes to the growth of decentralized financial ecosystems.

The built-in "functional layer" of the decentralized network: enhancing blockchain capabilities.

Artela's programming model introduces a built-in "functional layer" for blockchain networks without the need for third-party networks or complex off-chain systems. This functional layer extends the native capabilities of the foundational layer, including security protection, custodian functions, automation, and off-chain synchronization. The integration of this functional layer marks a leap forward for decentralized networks in protocol development and user experience.

Conclusion

The foundational technology of Web3 is public blockchain, which was first introduced to the world by Satoshi Nakamoto's Bitcoin network and later significantly expanded in functionality by smart contract platforms like Ethereum. Some view blockchain as a decentralized data network, i.e., distributed ledger technology. In reality, it is far more than just a data layer.

Blockchain is more like a computer than a ledger or database, and the challenge we face today is how to design a better computer. The Artela blockchain is built on the Cosmos SDK with many improvements at the engine level, and Artela is EVM-compatible, innovating by introducing Aspect Programming for on-chain extensions. In addition to EVM, Artela has added a second WASM-based virtual machine to support multiple programming languages (assembly scripts, rust, C, C++) and access more on-chain resources, making EVM suitable for general smart contracts while Aspect VM is tailored for specific application extensions.

Extension Links:
(1) https://docs.artela.network/main/Aspect-Programming/Aspect (Official Explanation of Aspect)

(2) https://docs.artela.network/Core-Concepts/Chain-Native-Pattern (Utilizing Aspect Programming for Native Extensions)