- Coinbase’s second-layer network, Base, will soon allow users to pay transaction fees using ERC-20 tokens, including USDC, eliminating the need for Ether.
- Base network’s update enables fee payment with ERC-20 tokens, simplifying interactions and boosting token demand.
Ethereum‘s blockchain technology continues to evolve, and a significant update from Coinbase’s second-layer network, Base, is set to change how users interact with this ecosystem. Traditionally, Ethereum transactions require Ether (ETH) to pay for gas fees, the cost associated with executing transactions and smart contracts. However, Base is shifting this paradigm by enabling the payment of transaction fees using ERC-20 tokens, a move that could dramatically ease user interactions and broaden Ethereum’s appeal.
The Evolution of Transaction Fees on Ethereum
Base, established by the popular cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, represents one of the largest and most rapidly growing second-layer networks in the Ethereum landscape. With nearly $2.5 billion in total value locked, it stands as a significant player in the blockchain arena. The latest development from Base allows for an innovative approach to handling transaction fees. Instead of being restricted to using ETH, users can now pay with ERC-20 tokens, such as USDC—a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar—and other tokens that conform to the Ethereum standard.
This flexibility is crucial for several reasons. Primarily, it democratizes access to blockchain technologies by reducing the barrier to entry for users who may not hold ETH but possess other types of tokens. By removing the need to convert these assets into ETH for transaction purposes, Base enhances user experience and simplifies transactions within the decentralized applications (dApps) built on its network.
The ability to pay fees in ERC-20 tokens not only simplifies transactions but also adds a layer of utility to the tokens themselves. For instance, if a dApp allows fee payments in its native token, it inherently boosts the token’s necessity and potential value. Users are encouraged to acquire and hold such tokens, not just for speculative purposes but as a practical asset for regular use within the ecosystem.
Moreover, this system benefits developers by giving them the flexibility to create more engaging and economically viable applications. By allowing fee payments in a variety of tokens, developers can tailor their applications to the needs and preferences of their user base, potentially offering incentives or discounts for using specific tokens, thereby fostering a more engaged and loyal community.
Technical Implementation and Future Prospects
It’s important to note that while the protocol layer of Base still relies on ETH for gas payments, the user-facing side will not require ETH directly, thanks to what is known as “gas abstraction.” This method allows dApps to handle the ETH gas fees in the background while accepting user fees in different tokens.
As this feature rolls out, it will initially be available in an “Early Access” phase, indicating that Base is testing and refining this function. For developers interested in integrating this system, Base has set clear guidelines: the feature must be implemented in an application on the main Base network, the ERC-20 token used must be listed on a major market capitalization site, and the application must support all smart wallets.
