Sei Network Considers Dropping Cosmos Support for Ethereum Compatibility
1min read Sei Network, a blockchain platform, is considering a significant shift in its infrastructure. A developer from Sei Network proposed to phase out support for Cosmos, a blockchain ecosystem, in favor of focusing solely on Ethereum compatibility. This move aims to simplify the blockchain's architecture, reduce complexity for users, and enhance the overall developer experience.
The proposal, if approved, would mean that Sei users would only be able to send and receive transactions that are compatible with Ethereum. Philip su, the Engineering Lead at Sei Labs, highlighted that this transition would lead to greater adoption, improved developer experience, and a more cohesive community. The decision comes at a time when blockchain infrastructure builders are vying to attract developers and expand their user bases.
Ethereum-based infrastructure, which operates on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), is the backbone for most decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. Major blockchains like Coinbase’s Base and the Binance-affiliated BNB Chain also utilize the EVM. However, there are competitors such as Solana, which uses the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM), and Cosmos, which has developed CosmWasm.
Sei currently supports both EVM and CosmWasm, but this dual architecture has introduced significant complexity and friction for both users and developers. Su noted that while this dual support has provided flexibility, it has also added unnecessary overhead in the codebase, complicating debugging and testing. If Sei pivots away from CosmWasm, it could significantly impact the adoption of Cosmos software.
Since its launch in 2023, the Sei Network has seen steady growth. Deposits to DeFi apps on the network have reached an all-time high, making it one of the largest blockchains by total value locked. Initially, Sei did not support the EVM, which slowed its adoption. However, after launching its second version in July 2024, which allowed users to create DeFi apps using either CosmWasm or the EVM, activity on the blockchain surged. Developers and investors flocked to Sei, attracted by the EVM's widespread use and familiarity.
Ask Aime: What's the impact of Sei Network's infrastructure shift on Ethereum-based projects?
New Sei users are predominantly choosing to use the EVM over CosmWasm, indicating a clear preference for Ethereum compatibility. The current cross-compatibility between EVM and CosmWasm introduces unnecessary overhead and complicates the development process. To address these issues, Sei will host a community call on May 14 to discuss the proposal in detail. This call will provide an opportunity for developers and the community to ask questions and provide feedback on the potential shift.
