Ethereum Developers Prepare “Glamsterdam” Upgrade for 2026

Ethereum developers are actively preparing the network’s next major upgrade, known as Glamsterdam, which is currently expected to launch in the first half of 2026. The upgrade follows Ethereum’s recent development cycle and represents another step in the protocol’s long-term roadmap.

Glamsterdam is designed to introduce structural changes at the protocol level. One of the most discussed elements is enshrined Proposer-Builder Separation (ePBS). This mechanism would embed block building rules directly into the Ethereum protocol, reducing reliance on off-chain infrastructure and external relays.

By moving block construction deeper into the protocol, developers aim to reduce centralization risks and improve fairness in transaction ordering. The change also targets long-standing concerns related to maximal extractable value, commonly known as MEV.

Another feature under discussion is the introduction of block-level access lists. These would allow nodes to know in advance which parts of Ethereum’s state a block will access. This approach could improve execution efficiency and support future scalability efforts, particularly for node operators.

While the exact scope of Glamsterdam is still being finalized, Ethereum developers have emphasized a more predictable upgrade cadence. Glamsterdam is expected to be part of a broader plan to deliver regular protocol upgrades, with another upgrade already planned for later in 2026.

Developers have stressed that Glamsterdam is not focused on a single feature. Instead, it aims to strengthen Ethereum’s core architecture as usage continues to grow across decentralized finance, stablecoins, and on-chain applications.

As discussions continue, the final list of Ethereum Improvement Proposals will be confirmed closer to the release date. Until then, Glamsterdam remains a key milestone in Ethereum’s effort to balance scalability, decentralization, and long-term sustainability.