With the anticipated launch of Cardano Node 9.0 in June, Cardano is set for a significant transformation. This update paves the way for the long-awaited Chang hard fork, initiating the Voltaire Age—a transformative period centered on self-governance for Cardano’s blockchain. In a recent comment on X, Cardano's creator, Charles Hoskinson, discussed this upcoming release, emphasizing its importance in preparing for the next stages of evolution.

Hoskinson highlighted that June will be a pivotal month for Cardano with the release of version 9.0 of the Node software. This update signifies Cardano's readiness for the Chang fork and its associated changes, assuming the Stake Pool Operators (SPOs) adopt it. Once adopted, a hard fork can facilitate the transition to the “Age of Voltaire,” marking a shift towards a more democratic consensus model for Cardano.

Another key development in the Cardano project is the expected Chang hard fork, which is anticipated to transform the blockchain platform into a decentralized global community with improved governance systems. The management of elements such as an annual budget and a treasury system will depend on the cooperation and collective expertise of Cardano members. Hoskinson enthusiastically shared his vision of a large-scale decentralized society involving millions of people and embracing complex governance systems.

In the Voltaire Age, Cardano will adopt a new governance model that transfers power to the community, allowing direct involvement in decision-making. The first step towards this goal is to integrate governance features from CIP 1694, forming the foundation of decentralized voting systems. Future updates will enable proxy voting and Treasury fund withdrawals, allowing community members to propose and finance projects within the Cardano network.

The recent release of Cardano Node version 8.9.2 anticipates these future developments. This update, which focuses on peer-sharing networking, enhances the network's capability for direct message exchange—critical for implementing Cardano’s unique governance model.

The upcoming Chang hard fork and Cardano's transition to the Voltaire Age could significantly impact the native digital coin, ADA. Currently priced at $0.441 per coin and among the top ten cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, ADA could see price increases due to new features and overall network improvements.

As Cardano's future unfolds, there is a strong emphasis on developing a blockchain environment based on decentralization, democratic management principles, and advanced technologies. This shift signifies a major move for blockchain networks to decentralize at scale, allowing community participation in decision-making. Consequently, the Voltaire Age represents a significant step towards Hoskinson’s vision of a fully decentralized global society through blockchain technology.