As the blockchain landscape continues evolving, two concepts have emerged: chain interoperability and chain abstraction. While often confused, these terms represent distinct yet interconnected approaches to solving the challenges of a multi-chain ecosystem.

This article aims to clarify the differences between these concepts and explore their relationship in shaping the future of blockchain.

Defining Chain Interoperability

Chain interoperability refers to the solutions that enable different blockchains to interact & communicate. Some common examples of interoperability solutions include:

• Cross-chain bridges

• Atomic swap protocols

• Cross-chain Messaging Protocols

Cross-chain messaging currently stands out as the most advanced & efficient interoperability solution. Its key advantage lies in enabling seamless asset transfers across blockchains without the need for token wrapping. This approach mitigates liquidity fragmentation and reduces vulnerability to hacks and exploits, which have been major concerns for traditional bridges.

Understanding Chain Abstraction

Chain abstraction is a recent concept that has emerged due to the growing number of chains & rollups. It is a standard of user experience that eliminates the processes typically required to interact with multiple chains, for example: having multiple wallets/accounts, switching different dApps, etc.

Chain abstraction aims to create a streamlined, unified experience in which users can easily/unknowingly move tokens between chains. So, how does it differ from cross-chain solutions?

Chain Interoperability vs Abstraction

Chain interoperability and chain abstraction are closely intertwined. Interoperability solution is the foundation of chain abstraction. Without the groundwork of bridges or messaging protocols, it is impossible to create the simplified multi-chain flows that chain abstraction aims to achieve.

Chain abstraction can be seen as the next evolution of blockchain interoperability. It takes the core capabilities of interoperability solutions and creates a more friendly UX.

Henez's solution

There is a trend where traditional cross-chain solution providers are expanding to include more chain-abstract solutions. For example: Wormhole or LayerZero.

Henez has effectively harnessed the capabilities of cross-chain messaging protocols to develop our chain abstraction solution. By integrating Caldera and Hyperlane, we enable users to effortlessly access liquidity and transfer assets across multiple chains and rollups with just one click, all within a unified interface. Users can complete all their interactions without leaving the Henez UI.

With the recent addition of Particle Network, we’ve introduced Account Abstraction, allowing users to log into Henez using Web2 social accounts like Google or Facebook.

Conclusion

While chain interoperability and chain abstraction are distinct concepts, they represent different phases in the inevitable evolution of multi-chain interactions.

At Henez, we've identified Chain Abstraction as the next revolution in Web3 and have integrated pioneering interoperability solutions like Hyperlane to deliver the ultimate chain-abstracted experience for our users.