Aptos has launched the Encrypted Mempool feature on the mainnet, allowing users to hide the details of pending transactions until validators complete the ordering process. Users can individually activate transaction encryption, with sender addresses and network fees remaining publicly visible throughout the process. The system adds about 20 milliseconds of delay in tests involving 50 validators. Encrypted transactions require twice the base minimum gas price, in addition to extra fees for decoding the transaction contents.
Aptos confirmed that the launch took place on October 12 and that this optional feature was designed to protect traders from frontrunning, sandwich attacks, and other forms of maximal extractable value (MEV). The system encrypts the transaction contents before they are sent to the network, preventing validators and third-party observers from accessing the instructions while the transaction is pending ordering. Users can now encrypt transaction instructions before sending them to the Aptos blockchain. Details of staked assets, transaction amounts, and smart contract functions remain hidden until validators determine the order of transaction execution. The sender's wallet address and network fees remain visible throughout the process.
Aptos explained that trading bots often monitor pending transactions on the blockchain to identify profitable opportunities before they are executed. Some attempt to place trades ahead of large orders, while others execute transactions before and after a user's trade order to profit from the resulting price movement. In its announcement, Aptos warned that "bots use this visibility to trade against you or copy your strategy." According to the project documentation, encrypted transactions must pay a minimum gas price of 200 octas per gas unit, which is twice the network's minimum price. Each transaction requires an additional 375 gas units for decoding, separate from the gas consumed for executing its instructions. The network reported approximately 20 milliseconds of additional delay with each block. APT continues to be under selling pressure, trading at prices below $0.80 — at $0.7995, down 11.5% over 24 hours. At the time of review, the token's market capitalization was approximately $697.14 million.
This material is prepared solely for informational purposes and does not constitute financial advice or a recommendation.