The Rocket Pool Smartnode v1.14.0 release includes mandatory client updates for Nethermind, Prysm, Besu, and Reth, alongside Smart Node changes such as removing the 16 ETH minipool option, enhancing deposit prompts, and optimizing RPC calls for oDAO nodes. Minor adjustments were also made to accommodate Saturn-0 and update messages. Shortly after, version 1.14.1 was released to address a breaking change in Prysm and update Lodestar, which is only necessary for Prysm users. Node operators that updated within 72 hours received a POAP.

Rocket Pool has released v1.13.10 of the Smart Node, a recommended update featuring important bug fixes, client updates, and minor enhancements. This version includes updates to Geth, Besu, Reth, Teku, Nimbus, and Nethermind, along with new MEV-Boost support for the Holesky testnet and optimizations for oDAO RPC calls. Additional improvements include Reth peer parameter controls, cleanup for V10, and fixes to various issues. Rocket Pool node operators that were the first to upgrade received a POAP. This month's POAP was designed by talented Icelandic community member IcelandCalling.eth.

On August 5, a shaky market led to super low prices for the RPL (Rocket Pool) token. As the token dipped below $10, community members shared the state of their portfolios. This POAP was given to members who participated in and witnessed this catastrophic market event.

Rocket Pool has begin the official governance process for the RPIP-49 tokenomics rework after extensive stakeholder feedback and polishing of the specifications. A sentiment poll has been posted to decide whether to move the rework to a snapshot vote, with the flexibility to make minor adjustments during implementation. Alternative proposals by 1kx and ib1gymnast are also under consideration, and voters should read the details and make an informed decision on the future of Rocket Pool. Only participants that voted, left a meaningful comment, and posted in the appropriate thread received a POAP.

The Rocket Pool Houston release delivered Protocol DAO on-chain voting. Shortly, the Protocol DAO will be able to vote on Snapshot for meta governance and vote on-chain to make protocol changes. Before Rocket Pool can enable Protocol DAO voting, node operators need to initialize their voting power in the new system and update their signaling address that is used to vote on Snapshot. Node operators that initialized their voting power by July 15 received a POAP.

Rocket Pool has rolled out Smart Node version 1.13.0, fully equipped for the imminent Houston upgrade! Notable features entail the integration of an On-Chain pDAO (RPIP-33), the capability to stake ETH on behalf of nodes (RPIP-32), a designated RPL Withdrawal Address (RPIP-31), and time-based balance and RPL price submissions (RPIP-35). Node operators who promptly update within 24 hours are rewarded with a POAP.