Brevis and Zero-Knowledge Tech: The Future of verifiable Computing with zkVMs and ZK Coprocessors

Brevis is making revolutionary strides in blockchain scalability and decentralized computing through its advanced zkVM (Zero-Knowledge Virtual Machine) and ZK Data Coprocessor technologies. These cutting-edge innovations form the backbone of trustless, verifiable computing systems, advancing the capabilities of Ethereum’s Layer 1 Real-Time Proving (RTP) and universal zkVM deployments. Based on insights gathered from Jacob Zhao’s “Brevis Research Report,” these tools reimagine how computations can integrate privacy, efficiency, and modular scalability into blockchain ecosystems.

Zero-Knowledge Proofs and Verifiable Computing

Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKP) are the cornerstone of verifiable computing, seamlessly blending off-chain computation with on-chain verification. This transformative paradigm dramatically enhances flexibility in decentralized applications while maintaining scalability, privacy, and data integrity. The evolution of verifiable computing—from Layer 2 zkRollups and zkVMs to zkCoprocessors and Layer 1 zkEVMs—represents a pivotal shift toward a more dynamic and holistic blockchain infrastructure.

The Progression of Verifiable Computing Technologies

1. Layer 2 zkRollups: Introduced off-chain execution with on-chain proofs, providing scalability and cost efficiency.
2. zkVMs: Expanded reaching diverse applications like AI inference, cryptographic computations, and cross-chain proofs.
3. zkCoprocessors: Delivered specialized, modular proofs tailored to specific business domains.
4. Layer 1 zkEVMs: Integrated real-time proving mechanisms directly into Ethereum’s execution framework.

Layer 2 innovation laid foundational scalability, while Layer 1 zkEVMs ushered in real-time proving capabilities, redefining computational validation with drastic efficiency improvements.

Ethereum’s zkEVM Milestones: Toward Real-Time Proving

Ethereum’s zkEVM roadmap unfolds in distinct phases, establishing the infrastructure to deliver real-time proving and long-term scalability.

Phase One (2022–2024): Layer 2 Rollup-Centric Expansion

• Offloading transaction processing to Layer 2 while uploading validity proofs onto Layer 1 facilitated scalability and cost reduction. However, state fragmentation and liquidity bottlenecks persisted due to the N-of-N re-execution model.

Phase Two (Post-2025): Layer 1 Real-Time Proving (RTP)

• The RTP model transitions to a 1-of-N validation system, where selected provers validate entire blocks while others confirm cryptographic proofs. This unlocks unparalleled throughput while maintaining decentralization.

Vitalik Buterin identified five zkEVM types (Type 1-4, including 2.5), capturing varying trade-offs between compatibility and performance:

• Type 1: Full Ethereum equivalence sacrifices proof speeds (e.g., Taiko).
• Type 2: EVM equivalence optimized for faster proof functionality (e.g., Scroll).
• Type 2.5: Adjusts gas costs for computations incompatible with ZKP (e.g., Polygon zkEVM).
• Type 3: Simplifies data pre-compilations for improved speeds (e.g., zkSync).
• Type 4: Translates languages directly into ZK circuits, achieving peak performance but limited compatibility (e.g., StarkNet).

By mid-2025, Ethereum plans to implement Layer 1 cryptographic proofs with “RTP.” Critical developmental landmarks include:

1. Enabling proof generation for block units within Ethereum’s 12-second time slots.
2. Standardizing a unified proof-verification interface for seamless protocol integration.
3. Establishing an economic and censorship-resistant marketplace for provers.

Ethereum’s RTP zkVM system implements the “verify instead of execute” principle, pushing cryptographic proving efficiency to new heights.

Expanding ZKP Impact: Universal zkVM and Scenario-Specific zkCoprocessors

Beyond Ethereum, Brevis spearheads universal zkVM frameworks and domain-specialized zkCoprocessors to extend the reach of ZKP’s transformative potential.

zkVM: A Robust Layer for Universal Verifiable Computing

Widely applicable zkVM architectures like RISC-V or WASM translate abstract business logic into zk-proofs that submit seamlessly to blockchain networks. Applications span a wide array of use cases, including:

• Block proofing
• Cross-chain validation
• AI inference tasks
• Cryptographic calculations

Despite its versatility, zkVM construction demands high engineering optimization and parallel GPU resources to overcome circuit complexity. Major platforms like Risc Zero’s R0VM, Succinct Labs’ SP1, and Brevis’ Pico/Prism deliver significant advancements in modular zkVM architectures.

zkCoprocessors: Targeted Modules for Efficiency

Unlike zkVMs, zkCoprocessors apply zero-knowledge technology to specific operational scenarios, optimizing:

• On-chain data retrieval
• Identity validation
• Decentralized financial metrics such as TVL calculations

Built with pre-defined logic and API/SDK configurations, zkCoprocessors offer streamlined, cost-efficient solutions ideal for DeFi-specific tasks or risk management use cases. While less flexible than zkVMs, their targeted functionality excels in specific industries.

Employing these two complementary layers—zkVM for universality and zkCoprocessors for specificity—has helped Brevis establish a robust verifiable computing ecosystem.

The Brevis Ecosystem: Integrated zkVM and zkCoprocessors

Brevis seamlessly unites zkVM technology with zkCoprocessor frameworks, creating a modular, trustless computing infrastructure optimized for scalability, security, and economic accessibility.

Brevis Innovations

1. Pico zkVM: Implements Vitalik’s “Glue and Coprocessor Architecture,” separating generalized execution layers from enhanced coprocessor acceleration mechanisms. Brevis optimizes operations across blockchain, AI, and cryptographic solutions.
2. Pico Prism: Deploys multi-GPU parallel proving, achieving remarkable efficiency with verification times under seven seconds on 64 RTX 5090 GPUs. Compared to competitors like SP1, its cost-effectiveness stands out.
3. ZK Data Coprocessor: Eases blockchain operational bottlenecks by enabling computational verifiability for DeFi analytics, on-chain incentives, and data intelligence applications.
4. Incentra Incentive Platform: Decentralized reward distribution merges zk-proof-enabled automation with scalable cross-chain interactions.

Competitive Landscape of zkVMs and zkCoprocessors

Brevis leads zkVM innovation with unmatched proof latencies, multi-GPU integrations, and modular scalability that outperform rivals like Risc Zero’s R0VM and Succinct Labs’ SP1 models. Within the zkCoprocessor market, Brevis competes with Axiom, Herodotus, and Lagrange to deliver next-gen APIs for crypto-economic solutions in DeFi, real-world assets (RWA), and identity protocols.

Conclusion: Pioneering Verifiable Computing

Brevis integrates scalable zkVM frameworks with scenario-specific zkCoprocessors to redefine trustless, universal computation infrastructures. Striving toward broader adoption of zero-knowledge technologies in decentralized finance, AI, and global computing networks, its performance and ecosystem compatibility position the company at the forefront of blockchain innovation. By championing operational scalability, seamless ecosystem integration, and transparent incentive mechanisms, Brevis sets the standard for the future of verifiable computing. As blockchain evolves, Brevis remains committed to driving forward the revolutionary potential of zero-knowledge technology.