TLDR:
- Aster plans L1 blockchain launch in Q1 2026 with developer toolkit and fiat gateway integration
- Privacy trading via Shield Mode and TWAP orders set for early December rollout on the platform
- Token staking and governance features will give ASTER holders rewards and voting rights in Q2 2026
- Platform merged two protocols in 2025 while adding mobile app and listings on major exchanges
Aster released its first-half 2026 roadmap as the project closes a busy year of feature launches and platform consolidation.
The team said 2025 focused on proving execution after merging Astherus with ApolloX and rolling out major trading upgrades. The new phase shifts toward building a network designed to grow with its users. The roadmap outlines feature releases across infrastructure, token utility, and community expansion.
Aster Roadmap Introduces Major Upgrades for Early 2026
Aster detailed several immediate updates for December 2025, according to posts shared through its social channels. Shield Mode arrives in early December with private high-leverage trading, followed by TWAP strategy orders aimed at improving pricing.
The team also confirmed an upgrade to its stock perpetual markets with deeper liquidity and broader asset coverage. These updates set the stage for the Aster Chain testnet rollout at the end of December.
The roadmap expands further into the first quarter of 2026 as Aster prepares to launch its L1 chain. The team said Aster Chain will open alongside Aster Code, a toolkit for builders integrating with the network.
A fiat on-ramp and off-ramp will also go live through external providers as part of the same release window. Aster described these features as part of a cycle connecting technology, value, and community participation.
Aster highlighted continued UI improvements as an ongoing development focus.
The project aims to refine trading flow and interface clarity while adding new features. These adjustments follow previous updates such as Hedge Mode, the mobile app release, and the platform’s buyback program.
Aster said these earlier improvements helped shape the foundation for its next phase.
The team described 2025 as a year that proved its ability to deliver across its roadmap. According to the project, each update strengthens the broader ecosystem while helping users access more integrated tools.
The coming releases continue this trend with a shift toward network-driven growth. Aster reiterated that it is not building a traditional trading venue but an expanding environment for users and builders.
🗺️ 2026 H1 Roadmap Reveal: What’s Next for Aster
2025 was about proving Aster can ship: we merged Astherus & ApolloX, launched multi-asset margin, released our mobile app, completed TGE, listed on major CEXs, and introduced features like Hedge Mode, Trade & Earn, and our buyback… pic.twitter.com/It8ZAigvKc
— Aster (@Aster_DEX) December 4, 2025
Token Utility And Governance Set For Mid-2026
Aster’s roadmap includes new token-based features scheduled for the second quarter of 2026.
Staking will open for ASTER holders, allowing users to earn rewards through locked participation. The project also plans to release on-chain governance, giving users a role in directing platform development. Both updates strengthen token utility within the network.
The roadmap introduces Aster Smart Money as an additional mid-year feature.
Users will be able to follow leading traders or share live strategies from within the platform. The project positions this tool as a way to link community insights with new trading behavior.
These updates build on Aster’s stated goal of connecting infrastructure, utility, and collaboration in a continuous cycle.
According to Aster, each part of the roadmap supports the broader transition into a more connected network. The team said the next phase aims to create an environment where builders, traders, and token holders can grow together.
The project expects the chain development, governance, and trading tools to define its progress through 2026. Aster will continue refining its roadmap as features move toward deployment.
