Google Cloud has joined ZetaChain as a network validator, participating in both its mainnet and testnet. This collaboration significantly bolsters ZetaChain’s security and scalability, furthering its ambition of establishing a truly Universal Blockchain capable of seamless cross-chain connectivity.
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This strategic partnership underscores Google Cloud’s commitment to fostering innovation within the Web3 space. Richard Widmann, Head of Web3 Strategy at Google Cloud, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that Google Cloud’s robust infrastructure and validator capabilities will empower ZetaChain to expand its Universal Blockchain and provide enhanced scalability for Web3 developers.
Furthermore, Google Cloud’s selection as one of the validators in ZetaChain’s “10,000,000 ZETA Token Delegation Program” highlights the trust placed in its technical expertise. This program will see Google Cloud’s five validators receive a delegated stake of 1,000,000 ZETA tokens.
Expanding Universal Blockchain and Universal App Functionality to Bitcoin
ZetaChain’s innovative Universal Apps enable cross-chain interoperability through EVM-compatible smart contracts that interact with any blockchain, including Bitcoin, EVM and non-EVM chains, and Layer-2 solutions. This groundbreaking functionality allows for seamless transactions across previously isolated networks. For instance, Bitcoin users can utilize Universal Apps to send USDC to Ethereum recipients, while Ethereum users can purchase NFTs on ZetaChain and transfer them to BNB Chain accounts in a single, streamlined transaction.
As of October 2024, this functionality has propelled ZetaChain into the top 10 most utilized Layer-1 blockchains, surpassing established players like Aptos, Tron, and Cardano, according to DappRadar.
Building on its previous introduction of Gateway, a solution simplifying complex multi-step cross-chain transactions for Universal Apps, ZetaChain’s collaboration with Google Cloud aims to further enhance the usability of these applications. Developers utilizing Universal Apps can now access support through Google Cloud’s Web3 startup program.
To streamline development and testing, Google Cloud will also integrate ZetaChain’s testnet faucet, enabling developers to easily acquire ZETA tokens on the test network.
Strengthening Bitcoin Integration and Web3 Adoption
The strategic partnership with Google Cloud marks a significant milestone for ZetaChain in its ongoing efforts to integrate Bitcoin into its ecosystem. With over 4 million unique connected wallets, 150 million completed transactions, and 290 dApps integrated on ZetaScan, ZetaChain is actively driving Web3 adoption and expanding the potential of Bitcoin. This collaboration will simplify node operation, encourage staking participation, and broaden Bitcoin’s role within ZetaChain’s dApps.
Brandon Truong, a contributor at ZetaChain, highlighted the significance of this development: “ZetaChain now allows developers to deploy smart contracts with direct access to the Bitcoin network. This creates a smart contract layer for the network, enabling users to interact with smart contracts directly from their Bitcoin wallets. Consequently, Bitcoin can be utilized in dApps across ecosystems like Ethereum, Solana, and many other chains supported by ZetaChain.”
This partnership positions ZetaChain for continued growth and innovation within the rapidly evolving blockchain landscape. By leveraging Google Cloud’s infrastructure and expertise, ZetaChain is poised to deliver on its promise of a truly interconnected and interoperable blockchain future.
