On September 9, Lattice Jolt was released, a new version of a computation verification system designed to withstand quantum attacks. According to developers from a16z crypto, the creation and verification of proofs have accelerated by 2-3 times.
Introducing Lattice Jolt ⚡️
A new version of our open-source zkVM (zero-knowledge virtual machine): faster and post-quantum, with compact proofs built on lattice-based cryptography.
The key unlock is Akita, a new polynomial commitment scheme. @LayerZero_Core led its development… https://t.co/lplkHVbU6J
— a16z crypto (@a16zcrypto) September 9, 2026
Jolt allows for the verification of program execution through a compact cryptographic proof, eliminating the need for the verifier to repeat all computations. Such tools are used for blockchain scaling.
Lattices Instead of Elliptic Curves
The update is centered around Akita, a cryptographic component developed by the team from the omnichain protocol LayerZero, in collaboration with researchers from Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Southern California, and a16z crypto.
Akita replaces Dory, a part of Jolt based on elliptic curves, with a new component that uses mathematical lattices.
Developers aim to provide a 128-bit security level, including protection against quantum attacks.
A similar mathematical approach underpins the post-quantum standards ML-KEM and ML-DSA, approved by NIST in 2024. These are intended for encryption key establishment and digital signatures.
LayerZero linked the release of Akita to the development of its blockchain:
“This is the first major step towards quantum protection for Zero.”
The project team explained that Jolt serves as the foundation for the Zero proof system and will be the first major application of Akita. The component is also available to developers of other systems.
LayerZero also emphasized that work on full quantum protection for the Zero infrastructure will continue as the mainnet launch approaches and beyond.
System Speed Improvements
According to a16z, switching to lattices allowed for reducing the size of numbers in core computations from 256 to 128 bits, speeding up operations.
Experts noted that on a MacBook, the previous version of Jolt generated proofs at about 1 million RISC-V cycles per second using the central processor. Lattice Jolt exceeded 2 million, and with the addition of a graphics processor via Apple Metal, it reached 10 million. The specific laptop model was not specified in the announcement.
The tenfold increase on CPU was achieved through two factors: the change in cryptographic scheme and the addition of a GPU.
According to the project authors, the size of a Lattice Jolt proof is less than 100 KB.
LayerZero separately stated that Akita allows for reducing proofs by 2-8 times compared to existing post-quantum alternatives, depending on the application.
Support for zero-knowledge in Lattice Jolt is planned to be detailed in a separate paper. This feature is necessary to conceal sensitive data used in computation. Previously, a16z noted that the term zkVM does not guarantee confidentiality.
The Jolt repository also notes that the project is in the alpha stage and not yet intended for industrial use.
Earlier, in September, IonQ specialists identified the necessary quantum computer power to attack Bitcoin.
