In a bold step toward expanding interoperability, the XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain is scheduled for release in Q2 2025. Announced by Ripple’s Product Director Jaazi Cooper and CTO David Schwartz at APEX 2025 in Singapore, this sidechain will bring Ethereum compatibility directly to XRPL – a key milestone for Ripple’s cross-chain ambitions.
What EVM Compatibility Means
Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility allows blockchains like XRPL to run Ethereum-native decentralized applications and smart contracts without rewriting code. This compatibility makes it easier for Ethereum developers to build on XRPL, leveraging its speed and minimal transaction fees without leaving behind the familiar Ethereum toolset.
XRPL’s EVM Testnet Shows Promising Results
The testnet for the XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain has been active since early 2025 and has already attracted substantial attention. Data from Peersyst Technologies, a key contributor to the project, shows:
“87 new entities – with no prior XRP involvement – are now contributing to the ecosystem: infrastructure, apps, and demand generation.”
This influx of developers is a strong indicator of future success once the mainnet officially launches.
EVM Sidechain Brings DeFi to XRPL
With the upcoming launch, the Sidechain opens XRPL to decentralized finance. From yield farming and liquidity pools to lending protocols and dApp deployment, Ethereum-based functionalities can now operate within XRPL’s scalable and eco-conscious environment.
XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain Enhances Core Strengths
The decision to introduce the XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain is not just about compatibility. Instead, it represents a strategic upgrade. XRPL continues to operate as a high-throughput blockchain. Specifically, it settles transactions in just 3 to 5 seconds. Moreover, it offers much lower transaction fees and energy usage compared to Ethereum.
By incorporating Ethereum tooling, Ripple further broadens XRPL’s appeal. Consequently, it unlocks new use cases without compromising the network’s core values.
Ripple’s Vision Shared at APEX 2025
Ripple presented this initiative at the APEX 2025 conference as part of a broader mission to integrate traditional finance with decentralized technologies. As a result, the XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain is positioned as a bridge between the two ecosystems. It brings greater flexibility to XRPL and, furthermore, encourages increased engagement from developers.
A New Chapter for XRP and Ethereum Builders
As Q2 progresses, the blockchain world eagerly awaits the official rollout of the XRP Ledger EVM Sidechain. Its potential to onboard Ethereum developers and drive new use cases on XRPL could be a game-changer in Ripple’s trajectory.
By blending Ethereum’s robust tooling with XRPL’s technical efficiency, this sidechain may mark the beginning of a more unified blockchain era.