The new function, called Hooks, allows operating the basic functions of a smart contract. Hooks anticipates the XRP project with Flare Networks to execute ETH smart contracts.
A new function that enables the execution of smart contracts enters on the Ripple blockchain (XRP Ledger or XRPL). It is about “Hooks”, a code that since November 18 is available to developers and operators of nodes on the platform.
A piece of information posted on Twitter by Wietse Wind, Head of Development at XRP Labs, explains that the launch of the new feature occurs after testing the alpha version last October. The manager adds that with this new functionality he expects the deployment of new use cases for the Ripple blockchain, as well as the attraction of more users.
In his message, the developer shares the new code along with a series of different commands for Docker, an application that runs the smart contract software packages on the XRP ledger. It also provides a Github link with all necessary instructions for implementation.
Among some of the instructions, there’s an order to execute smart contracts on the Ripple blockchain, developers must follow two basic steps: operate a node to view the logs, and another to implement the commands.
Smart contracts in Turing not complete
Hooks consist of a series of small band assembly modules, specifically designed for the XRPL, that run on the Ripple ledger at layer 1 (chain). “This means that they have the ability to control, with atomicity and purpose, the logical flow and execution of transactions in the accounts to which they are configured,” according to the developer.
Wind adds that these modules can be written in any language (compilable in WebAssembly binary code format). This makes it possible to implement most of the business logic and smart contract concepts in a hook.
The hooks are deliberately written in non-complete Turing language. “While often touted as the holy grail of smart contracts, Turing-Completeness is inappropriate for smart contracts,” says the developer, alluding to the language used to encode smart contracts in Ethereum.
The launch of Hooks becomes the first proprietary functionality that enables smart contracts in the Ripple ecosystem. It is one of the most anticipated implementations by the community that revolves around this project.
In that sense, Ripple keeps collaborating with the team of the new Flare Networks platform for about a year to allow the execution of Ethereum smart contracts in XRPL. As published in CryptoNews, the plan is being conducted through Xpring, Ripple’s investment wing, and technology incubator.
Within the framework of this idea, Ripple made a strategic investment in Flare Networks in 2019, which already published its white paper last August. It explains in detail how XRPL will be added to the Flare ecosystem. This network will integrate the Ethereum Virtual Machine, allowing public and private networks to use and execute smart contracts.
The project is currently heading to the launch of its native cryptocurrency (Spark) for December 12. There will be a distribution of the new token will among the holders of the XRP cryptocurrency who participate in the allocation.
By: Jenson Nuñez.
