Cardano's developer Input Output has announced the 'Ouroboros Phalanx' upgrade, aimed at enhancing the blockchain's security and efficiency. This upgrade introduces a verifiable delay function (VDF) to thwart grinding attacks by ensuring block selection randomness cannot be manipulated by malicious actors. Additionally, it promises improvements in transaction speed and decentralization. The upgrade is currently in its final testing phase and will be implemented through a hard fork due to its significant impact on the core protocol. This development marks a critical step in Cardano's ongoing efforts to strengthen its network against potential threats while enhancing overall performance.