Gate Research: A Comprehensive Look at Web3 Cross-Chain Services - Leading Protocols, Innovations, and Challenges

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Cross-chain technology plays a crucial role in enabling interoperability between different blockchain networks and is essential for the advancement of Web3. Rather than simply covering well-known cross-chain bridges, this article takes a deep dive into the leading cross-chain solutions in the industry today. It explores major interoperability protocols such as LayerZero, Wormhole, and Axelar, along with emerging trends like chain abstraction, intent-based systems, and chain aggregation (Agglayer). The analysis focuses on the core principles, use cases, and market impact of these solutions. By examining cross-chain technology from a technical perspective, this article highlights its potential to enhance blockchain ecosystem interoperability and asset liquidity while offering valuable insights and forward-looking perspectives for industry professionals.

Abstract

  • Cross-chain solutions can be categorized into three major types based on the method of message verification: native verification, external verification, and local verification. Among them, external verification verifies cross-chain messages by introducing a group of external verifiers (witnesses) that are independent of both the source chain and the destination chain. Representative protocols include LayerZero, Wormhole, and Axelar, which are currently the mainstream choices.

  • Mainstream cross-chain standard protocols such as LayerZero, Wormhole, and Axelar provide essential infrastructure for the cross-chain market. LayerZero is complex yet flexible, Wormhole is minimalist yet powerful, supporting efficient and secure cross-chain message transmission, while Axelar focuses on expanding cross-chain interoperability. These protocols each have advantages in terms of security, flexibility, and connection design.

  • Chain abstraction simplifies the cross-chain transaction process for users by establishing a “cross-chain relay station,” improving the user experience. Projects such as Particle Network and UniversalX are working in this area. A similar concept, intent-based transactions, can be seen as a personalized “on-demand pickup assistant.” It is more user-centric, enabling cross-chain execution of user intentions through declarative constraints and solver networks. Projects like dappOS and Anoma have demonstrated significant potential in this regard.

  • Integrating AI and cross-chain technology brings new opportunities to the cross-chain sector. For example, Wormhole’s standardized API and low-latency features support AI agents in obtaining multi-chain data in real time and triggering cross-chain operations. This can potentially drive new models such as cross-chain liquidity mining and multi-chain AI strategy subscriptions, forming a full-chain economic network centered around AI Agents.

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Author: Carl.Y
Translator: Paine
Reviewer(s): Mark、Edward、Wayne、Evelyn、Elisa
Translation Reviewer(s): Ashley、Joyce
* The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial advice or any other recommendation of any sort offered or endorsed by Gate.
* This article may not be reproduced, transmitted or copied without referencing Gate. Contravention is an infringement of Copyright Act and may be subject to legal action.

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