Avail DA introduces a new data availability layer that combines validity proofs with data availability sampling.
Avail, a blockchain project focused on improving data availability (DA) and scalability, has announced the launch of its mainnet, Avail DA, along with its native AVAIL token. This launch aims to strengthen blockchain infrastructure with a modular solution for data availability.
Innovative Data Availability Layer
Avail DA introduces a new data availability layer that combines validity proofs with data availability sampling. This ensures secure and efficient data management across multiple blockchains. The AVAIL token, now live, allows users to pay fees and stake to secure the network.
Avail DA Mainnet & the AVAIL token are now live!
Today marks the launch of Avail DA, the first modular data availability layer using validity proofs + data availability sampling. Now, build blockchains that truly scale with demand.
The AVAIL token powers the network—pay fees,… pic.twitter.com/t3SNvRV8Sl
— Avail (@AvailProject) July 23, 2024
The launch brings several benefits to the blockchain ecosystem. Layer 2 solutions like Validiums, Optimiums, and Sovereign Rollups are supported to reduce costs and enhance scalability. Rollups-as-a-Service (RaaS) providers can use a robust data availability layer optimized for zero-knowledge technology. In addition, developers get access to scalable blockspace for their modular tech stacks, while AVAIL token holders can stake their tokens to secure the network and participate in governance.
Founders and Funding
Avail was founded in late 2020 by Anurag Arjun and Prabal Banerjee to create trust-minimized systems that enhance blockchain scalability. Their vision attracted significant investment from industry leaders like Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, Dragonfly Capital, and Cyber Fund.
In March 2023, Avail became an independent entity after spinning out from Polygon Labs. The project has since secured over 70 partnerships, including major Layer 2 ecosystems like Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon, StarkWare, and zkSync.
Avail has raised a total of $75 million, with a $45 million Series A round announced in June, adding to previous pre-seed and seed rounds. This funding has been crucial in developing Avail DA and ensuring its robust infrastructure.
Data Availability Competitive Landscape
The data availability sector is rapidly evolving, with several prominent players entering the field. Celestia, a pioneer in DA, launched its mainnet last October, paired with an airdrop of its TIA token, setting a benchmark for the industry.
NEAR Protocol has introduced Nuffle Labs, a DA project that secured $13 million in funding, aiming to enhance its layer-1 blockchain capabilities. EigenLayer, known for its restaking solutions on Ethereum, offers its own DA technology called EigenDA, despite some limitations in functionality. Ethereum’s proto-danksharding introduced in March, provides a cost-effective method for storing layer-2 transactional data, adding to the competitive landscape.
Amidst these developments, Avail claims a unique position by providing the “only chain-agnostic DA layer combining KZG commitments with data-availability sampling”. This combination is positioned as a key differentiator, offering a versatile and scalable infrastructure compared to other solutions. However, to secure its place in the market, Avail will need to demonstrate its advantages to effectively compete with established solutions.
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