google Cloud has introduced a new Blockchain Remote Procedure Call (RPC) service designed to facilitate interactions between cryptocurrency developers and blockchain data, thereby enhancing the stability of decentralized applications (DApps). Initially, this service will support the Ethereum mainnet and testnet, with intentions to broaden its compatibility to other blockchain networks over the coming year.
The launch of the blockchain RPC service includes a free tier, allowing developers to make up to 100 call requests per second and one million requests daily, alongside support for the defined set of RPC methods under EIP-1474 tailored for Ethereum nodes. This new service aims to streamline the integration process for developers working on Ethereum -based applications, as it aligns fully with Ethereum ’s JSON-RPC standard, enabling quick implementation with minimal coding.
Communication using RPC is essential for blockchain applications, as it allows one software application to request services from another on separate systems and networks. However, reliability issues with RPC have emerged as a significant concern for developers in the crypto sector. Even minor delays or errors can profoundly affect the functionality of DApps, which often depend on rapid transaction processing and settlement.
RPC-related challenges become particularly pronounced during times of elevated network activity or transaction levels. For instance, the Ethereum layer-2 scaling solution, ZKsync, recently faced significant delays and network disruptions due to heightened traffic and problems with RPC providers.
In April, google Cloud unveiled a product suite called the Web3 Portal, aimed at providing blockchain developers with resources, including datasets and tutorials. While this initiative garnered mixed feedback, some critiques highlighted concerns regarding its user interface and limited support for prominent blockchain networks, such as Bitcoin . Despite these critiques, the new RPC service marks an important step in addressing the needs of developers operating within the evolving landscape of blockchain technology.
