Initially, developers want to focus on the Ouroboros Linear Leios feature (CIP-164), designed to increase Cardano's transaction processing throughput via Supplementary Endorser Blocks.
The first phase of the Dijkstra upgrade also includes a number of protocol changes: nested transactions (CIP-118) — where several incomplete operations are bundled together —, guard scripts (CIP-112), extended account addresses (CIP-159), and a simplified method for withdrawing staking rewards (CIP-181). The goal of these changes: to strive to improve the functionality and usability of the Cardano network. The first phase is planned to be completed by the end of the year.
However, before implementing these changes on the mainnet, developers and network participants need to test them. For this purpose, on June 23rd, the Cardano team launched the public Ouroboros Leios testnet, Musashi Dojo.
The second phase is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027 and includes the deployment of Ouroboros Peras (CIP-140) — an update intended to accelerate transaction processing in the blockchain. This will introduce an additional voting layer in the staking pool. Cardano's creators plan to release a Peras-compatible node for testnet operators, which will allow Staking Pool Operators (SPOs) to prepare their infrastructure for the upcoming hard forks.
Next, developers plan to conduct a Preview hard fork, opening a first two-week testing window for SPOs. Staking pool operators will be allowed to test the voting mechanism's operation and evaluate transaction latency. After preliminary testing, Cardano developers will move Peras to a pre-production network, where a second testing window will open for SPOs. This stage will last approximately one to two more weeks.
Additional tests will give developers a chance to identify and fix issues before the update is launched on the mainnet. Its activation will require approval from Delegated Representatives (DReps), Staking Pool Operators, and the Constitutional Committee. Cardano developers did not even give a preliminary launch date for the update.
In July, the Cardano team activated the Van Rossem hard fork, aimed at reducing the execution cost of Plutus smart contracts and preparing the blockchain for future upgrades.
