Pocket Network is transitioning into a new chapter of its development with the implementation of the Shannon upgrade, a protocol-level overhaul that redefines its token economy and broadens its strategic vision. This long-anticipated transformation introduces fundamental changes aimed at enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of the platform within the Web3 infrastructure space.
Central to this upgrade is a comprehensive redesign of the platform’s tokenomics, including a shift toward usage-based token burning, decentralized governance of token minting, and a revised pricing model built around Compute Units. These changes collectively position Pocket Network as one of the most cost-efficient data relay solutions in the decentralized web, while also promoting fairness and long-term economic viability for node operators.
Usage-Based Burning and DAO-Led Minting
One of the defining features of the Shannon upgrade is the implementation of automatic, on-chain POKT token burning for payment of relay services. Each transaction will now contribute to token destruction, and the system is designed so that any new token issuance will mirror the amount burned. This supply-neutral approach establishes a deflationary economic mechanism, which may help mitigate inflationary pressure on the POKT token.
Industry observers have suggested that this shift could bring upward momentum to the token’s market value, as the steady demand for POKT services will inherently generate consistent buy pressure. Simultaneously, the burning process acts as a supply limiter, supporting healthier price dynamics over time.
While the default configuration avoids token inflation, the DAO will retain authority to initiate a reimbursement event if needed, thereby allowing an increase in total supply under specific governance-approved conditions. By centralizing the minting power within the DAO treasury, the system prevents abuse through asymmetrical burning and minting practices, ensuring that economic decisions remain in the hands of the collective community.
Tiered Rebates to Encourage Adoption
To further drive meaningful platform adoption, the Shannon upgrade introduces a tiered rebate mechanism. This structure, also governed by the DAO, is designed to reward high-usage clients and developers who contribute significant value to the ecosystem. The incentive model is expected to attract a broader range of participants by reducing costs for frequent users, without compromising the overall economic integrity of the network.
Cost-Efficient Services Through Optimized Tokenomics
In parallel with these governance reforms, the upgrade also recalibrates the underlying economics of Pocket’s service offering. By aligning rewards with real-world usage and removing inefficiencies from the system, the new model reduces computational expenses. This is expected to allow Pocket Network to offer more affordable relay services compared to other Web3 infrastructure providers, enhancing its competitiveness in the data delivery space.
The combination of low-cost service delivery, deflationary token economics, and community-driven governance provides a strategic foundation for sustained growth. With POKT tokens already listed on both centralized and decentralized exchanges, the changes introduced through Shannon could mark a pivotal point in the platform’s market trajectory.
Looking Ahead
As Pocket Network enters this transformative phase, its focus remains on delivering decentralized infrastructure that is both economically sustainable and scalable. The Shannon upgrade, with its multi-layered approach to protocol and economic redesign, signals the platform’s commitment to long-term viability and increasing relevance in the Web3 ecosystem.
Each relay processed produces a proportional amount of POKT being burned, turning the token into a consumable asset tied directly to network usage – and a true utility token.
Â
