TLDR
- FOCIL allows up to 17 actors per slot to include Ethereum transactions quickly.
- EIP-8141 gives smart wallets native on-chain status without intermediaries.
- Privacy and gas-sponsored transactions gain fast inclusion through FOCIL.
- MEV last look remains via ePBS, reducing centralization among block proposers.
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin shared a detailed update on FOCIL and EIP-8141. He said these upgrades aim to speed transaction inclusion while keeping the network permissionless. The updates target smart wallets, gas-sponsored transactions, and privacy-focused tools.
Buterin explained that EIP-8141 builds on account abstraction, allowing smart accounts to submit transactions directly on-chain. Users no longer need wrappers or intermediaries. This allows accounts to support features like multisignature controls, quantum-resistant keys, and gas sponsorship.
Vitalik Buterin tweeted that FOCIL and EIP-8141 (based on 7701) work together to enable fast, censorship-resistant inclusion of smart wallet, gas-sponsored, and privacy transactions. EIP-8141 gives these accounts native on-chain status, while FOCIL randomly selects 17 actors per…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) February 20, 2026
FOCIL complements this by providing rapid transaction inclusion. It randomly selects 17 actors per slot to include transactions, ensuring one to two slot inclusion even under adversarial conditions. Each FOCIL is 8 kB and expandable. Unlike previous systems, it does not control the MEV last look, which remains through ePBS.
Fast Inclusion of Smart Wallets and Privacy Transactions
EIP-8141 gives smart accounts full on-chain status, making them first-class transaction senders. According to Buterin, this structure allows privacy and gas-sponsored transactions to enter blocks without relying on broadcasters or relayers.
FOCIL’s random selection of multiple actors per slot creates a path for almost guaranteed inclusion within one or two slots. This reduces reliance on a single proposer and lowers the risk of centralization in block production. Users can expect faster confirmation times for diverse transaction types.
Maintaining Protocol Neutrality
Buterin emphasized that Ethereum’s protocol remains neutral. He stated, “Ethereum cannot discriminate between users or applications. Anyone can deploy anything without asking permission.” Personal opinions do not affect protocol operation.
He distinguished between protocol neutrality and personal neutrality. While the protocol is impartial, individuals can hold and express opinions. Criticism of projects, which he labeled “corposlop,” is a personal stance, not censorship. The network still executes all valid transactions.
Market Participation and Ecosystem Principles
Buterin compared Ethereum to Linux, noting both power corporate and freedom-focused projects simultaneously. He stressed that engaging in revenue-generating markets is not wrong but excessive reliance on such strategies is “cursed.”
He highlighted that prediction markets are becoming more popular and transparent. Institutional players like Jump Trading and Coinbase are entering the space, and platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket have reached multi-billion-dollar valuations. Buterin views these markets as healthier than traditional financial systems.
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