Definition ∞ EVM Changes refer to modifications or upgrades made to the Ethereum Virtual Machine, the computational engine that executes smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. These alterations can include new opcodes, adjustments to gas costs, or improvements to how the EVM processes transactions and state transitions. Such changes are typically introduced through Ethereum Improvement Proposals and implemented during network upgrades. They aim to enhance the EVM’s performance, security, or functionality.
Context ∞ Discussions around EVM Changes are central to Ethereum’s ongoing development, as these modifications directly influence the capabilities and efficiency of decentralized applications. News often highlights proposed changes that aim to reduce transaction fees, increase processing speed, or introduce new cryptographic primitives. The successful implementation of these changes is vital for maintaining Ethereum’s competitiveness and supporting future innovations in decentralized finance.