ZetaChain has officially announced the gradual shutdown of its legacy cross-chain infrastructure, pivoting to Anuma and the next-generation user-owned memory, identity, permissions, payment, and AI agent stack. This strategic shift signals ZetaChain's exit from the crowded cross-chain bridge market toward an AI private memory layer.
Three-Phase Wind-Down Plan
According to the official transition plan, ZetaChain will phase out its cross-chain services in three stages:
- Phase 1 (June 1): Deposit functions are fully halted. Users can still withdraw eligible assets.
- Phase 2 (Before June 30): Last withdrawal window — users are urged to move assets before the deadline.
- Phase 3 (From June 30): All ZRC-20 token withdrawals are suspended indefinitely, and cross-chain monitoring for 10 blockchains (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Arbitrum, Base, BSC, Polygon, Avalanche, Sui, and TON) will be terminated.
Affected Chains and Asset Recovery
The shutdown impacts major networks including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Arbitrum, Base, BSC, Polygon, Avalanche, Sui, and TON. Users holding cross-chain assets on these chains must withdraw by June 30 to avoid permanent loss.
New Direction: Anuma and AI Private Memory Layer
ZetaChain stated that its team will concentrate on developing Anuma, a protocol centered on user-owned memory, identity, permissions, payment, and AI agent infrastructure. This initiative aligns with the concept of an "AI private memory layer," where users retain control over their personal data and AI interactions. The move reflects the crypto industry's growing focus on decentralized identity (DID) and autonomous AI agents.
Industry Implications
While the abrupt one-month withdrawal window may inconvenience existing users, ZetaChain's strategic pivot away from the highly competitive cross-chain bridge space toward a more differentiated AI memory layer could unlock new growth avenues. However, users are advised to act swiftly before the deadline to secure their funds. The transition also highlights broader market trends: as cross-chain bridges face increasing security risks and regulatory scrutiny, projects with strong technical foundations are seeking higher-value verticals like AI and decentralized identity.