![](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/379933981094838274/458934911034982400/BTU-community.png) In this article BuildTeam Universe would like to go over some of the recent developments made by the developers responsible for Steemit and the Steem blockchain. Most of this information can be found on the official development blog here: https://steemit.com/@steemitblog So, let's go to it shall we? One of the biggest announcements we have seen this year was made this past week regarding the recent launch of the Hardfork 20 Testnet! ![](https://steemitimages.com/0x0/https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmZrouQt6DgoFxf9HS6qWjVH6VPcSuarnVUdHd2v1mQyCT/Testnet%20Live.jpg) According to developers, the new testnet is a pretty big deal for the Steem ecosystem in general. We tend to agree with the developers in this regard and we will outline why we feel this way below. One of the biggest benefits is the new ability offered to developers of Steem applications to build and test their applications in a risk-free environment. Developers highlighted this factor with the following statement: “We believe Steem’s unique properties can make it the blockchain of opportunity for developers, and we understand that the key to doing this is world-class developer resources.” Beyond the testnet the fact that Steem will be undergoing its 20th hardfork is also a big deal. If you are unfamiliar with a hardfork it is essentially an update of the rules going forward. Functionality tends to go through modifications in a hardfork offering new opportunities and sometimes eliminating old ones as well. ![](https://steemitimages.com/0x0/https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmbrD2jQkThKBoKhxeYX5UahGJzAWCYtDDSKf1Vs4fi64s/Screen%20Shot%202018-08-24%20at%208.39.38%20PM.png) Developers will need to make themselves aware of new functionality as they may need to modify their applications in order to keep them up to date and in working order. Developers have ensured that changes coming in Hardfork 20 will be safe and provide incredible benefits to all parties going forward. Another benefit is the fact a new environment has been created to bulletproof the Steem blockchain and allow specialists to launch any kind of attack they desire at the new code in an effort to find vulnerabilities. A robust testnet paves the way for increased stability of the updated Steem blockchain and a truly sucessful launch as it enters production. The main point we are trying to make is that the future for Steem is bright and although at times it may seem like progress isn't being made, the technology behind Steem and the overall cryptospace is improving at lightspeed. As interest returns to the space we strongly feel that Steem will gain a huge amount of exposure based on the developments taking place. It is an exciting time to be involved with the Steem community and we intend to publish future developments and interviews surrounding the outstanding work taking place! Thanks for your support of @BTUniverse. If there is a topic you'd like to see covered in the future, please feel free to leave comments below letting us know! ---
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