Jstz, pronounced “justice,” is an upcoming Smart Rollup powered by JavaScript. It is part of the Tezos X vision and results from collaboration between multiple Tezos development teams. The Developer Experience team at Trilitech is currently building and testing a prototype of Jstz.
Tezos X and Blockchain Accessibility
Tezos X aims to overcome traditional barriers to blockchain adoption by making it more accessible and useful. This initiative is not just about improving performance; it is about opening up Tezos to millions of new developers. According to the 2023 Stack Overflow Developer Survey, JavaScript remains the preferred language for over 63% of developers. This makes Jstz a strategic move to attract a vast pool of developers to the Tezos ecosystem, enabling more innovative applications and solutions to be built on the blockchain.
Features of Jstz
Jstz offers several key features:
- Familiarity and Accessibility: Jstz supports standard JavaScript APIs, allowing developers to leverage the vast ecosystem of JavaScript tools and libraries. This makes it easier for developers to transition to blockchain development without having to learn a new language.
- Scalability and Composability: The layer 2 rollup provides vertical scaling similar to Solana but without high hardware requirements, avoiding the fragmentation seen in Ethereum’s L2 ecosystem. This ensures that the Tezos network can handle a large number of transactions efficiently.
- Interoperability: Smart contracts can interact across different programming languages, significantly enhancing the development experience. This feature is crucial for creating a more interconnected blockchain ecosystem.
Invitation to Developers
JavaScript developers are invited to explore and contribute to the future of blockchain through Jstz. A demonstration of Jstz will take place at TezDev in Brussels on July 11th. More details will be available on the Tezos blog, which will publish an article at 12 PM UK time / 7 AM ET. This event provides an excellent opportunity for developers to see Jstz in action and understand its potential applications.
A Step Towards Tezos X
Jstz represents a significant step towards Tezos X, aiming to provide an OP blockchain-based, cloud-like backend for various applications. Historically, blockchain development involved creating unique programming languages specific to each protocol. Tezos initially focused on security with the creation of Michelson, a language that enables formal verification. However, the learning curve and lack of interoperable tools have been significant barriers for many developers.
Tezos X’s approach is to remove these barriers by allowing developers to use the tools and languages they are already familiar with. This strategy not only simplifies the development process but also broadens the range of potential applications and innovations that can be built on Tezos.
Breaking Down Barriers with Jstz
Jstz changes the landscape by allowing developers to use JavaScript and its extensive resources. Unlike previous attempts that only enabled the language itself, Jstz complies with standard JavaScript APIs and supports a wide range of JavaScript tools and libraries. This approach provides a familiar Web2-like experience enhanced with Web3 features such as built-in identity, wallet, and payments.
By supporting JavaScript runtime APIs, Jstz will enable developers to use not just the syntax, but a massive selection of libraries by simply installing almost any package in the npm ecosystem. This is a significant advantage as it allows developers to build and deploy applications quickly and efficiently.
Future Enhancements
Jstz plans to introduce new features to further combine the best aspects of Web2 and Web3:
- Compliance with WinterCG to enhance interoperability with Web APIs. This will make it easier for developers to integrate their applications with other web services.
- Native account abstraction for smoother user experiences. This feature will allow developers to create more user-friendly applications by simplifying the process of managing accounts and transactions.
- Named addresses with DNS support for user-friendly identification. This will make it easier for users to interact with blockchain applications by using familiar DNS names.
- Off-chain communications to call external services, such as REST APIs for off-chain data integration. This feature will enable developers to create more complex and integrated applications by leveraging external data sources.
Layman’s Breakdown
For those who might not be familiar with all the technical terms, here’s a simple breakdown of what Jstz means for you:
- Easy for Developers: Jstz lets developers use JavaScript, a common programming language, to build on the Tezos blockchain. This is like allowing people to speak their native language instead of learning a new one.
- Fast and Efficient: Jstz makes the Tezos blockchain faster and more efficient by handling more transactions without needing fancy, expensive equipment.
- Works with Other Systems: Jstz allows programs on Tezos to easily communicate with other systems and languages, making it easier to create complex and interconnected applications.
- More Tools for Builders: Developers can use a wide range of existing tools and libraries, making it easier and quicker to build new applications.
- Future-Ready: Jstz will keep improving, adding features like better web service integration, easier user management, and the ability to interact with external data sources.
A Call to Action
Tezos encourages JavaScript developers to join and innovate within the Jstz ecosystem. The Jstz GitHub repository is open for developers to learn more and start contributing. This is a unique opportunity for developers to be part of a groundbreaking initiative that aims to make blockchain development more accessible and interconnected.
By participating in the Jstz project, developers can help shape the future of blockchain technology and create innovative applications that leverage the power of Tezos and JavaScript. Whether you are an experienced blockchain developer or new to the space, Jstz offers a familiar and powerful platform to build on.
Tezos invites all developers to bring their ideas, share their thoughts, and contribute to the evolution of the blockchain ecosystem. With Jstz, the possibilities are limitless, and the future of blockchain is more accessible than ever.
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