Cardano's latest node release enables full on-chain governance via Chang 2 hard fork

Cardano Node 10.1.1 has officially launched, marking a key milestone in the platform’s journey towards decentralized governance.
This release supports the Chang 2 hard fork, an upgrade designed to complete Cardano’s on-chain governance as outlined in CIP-1694. The upgrade moves Cardano beyond its initial “launch” governance phase, which began with the Chang 1 hard fork on September 1.
Cardano's next upgrade: Chang Upgrade 2
Notably, the Chang upgrade is crucial for Cardano as it implements the final features of its on-chain governance system based on Voltaire-era principles. The upgrade process is divided into two parts to simplify adoption and ensure a smooth transition.

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With Chang 2, Cardano’s governance evolves as it allows ADA holders to directly participate in protocol decision-making.
After this upgrade, ADA holders will have the option to delegate their voting power to representative delegates (DReps) or take on the DRep role themselves.
New features and technical enhancements in Node 10.1.1
Cardano Node 10.1.1 includes several key improvements beyond governance. This release introduces new Plutus primitives that enhance smart contract functionality as detailed in CIP-0122, CIP-0123, and CIP-0127.
Stake pool operators (SPOs) will find improved support for SPO delegation to scheduled voting options, along with enhancements to the ledger, API, CLI, and network.
However, this version includes breaking changes. As older functionality is phased out, SPOs and developers should consult the release notes on the Intersect GitHub to ensure compatibility.

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Technical preparation and community participation
Implementation of Chang 2 requires a vote from the Interim Constitutional Council (ICC) and 51% stake from SPOs. Once these thresholds are reached, there will be an epoch approval period, after which the hard fork will go into full effect.
SPOs, DApps, and Exchanges
It is important to be prepared for this upgrade as compatibility with Node 10.1.1 is critical to supporting smooth post-upgrade operations.
Intersect, the organization responsible for facilitating Cardano’s governance infrastructure, will provide an ecosystem readiness page to track progress during the upgrade phase. The Hard Fork Working Group will also host Q&A sessions to answer community questions and provide guidance on technical changes.
After Chang 2: The era of community-driven governance
Once Chang 2 is in place, Cardano’s governance will operate through decentralized voting, allowing ADA holders to shape the future of the blockchain through GovTool and other governance initiatives.
The community will have the opportunity to join working groups and participate in open meetings to develop and refine governance proposals, including budgets and protocol improvements.
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