Stellar (XLM) Introduces Composable Data Platform for Enhanced Data Access
Stellar (XLM) has announced the launch of its Composable Data Platform, a next-generation data-access solution designed to address current limitations and enhance data distribution across its blockchain network, according to Stellar.
The State of the World
Currently, the Stellar Development Foundation (SDF) operates two primary products for data mediation from the Stellar blockchain: Horizon and Hubble. Horizon is an API that interacts with the network, while Hubble is a comprehensive analytics dataset. Although these products support small-scale development and experimentation, their monolithic nature presents several challenges.
One significant issue is the limited flexibility, which forces providers to either adopt SDF’s chosen data model or develop their own independent integration. This process is time-consuming and requires specialized domain knowledge. Additionally, the logical centralization of these products makes them difficult to run independently, leading to a community dependency on SDF-hosted versions.
Challenges and Solutions
To foster a decentralized network, it is crucial to distribute data storage and access across a broad range of ecosystem participants. The recent launch of Soroban and changes in SDF Horizon’s data retention policies have spurred interest in providing network data as a service. However, the current infrastructure makes it challenging for providers to quickly integrate and serve Stellar data.
The Composable Data Platform aims to resolve these issues by offering a more flexible and decentralized approach. This new platform will allow various participants, including analytics providers, infrastructure providers, and indexers, to easily access and distribute network data without the need for extensive customization or independent development.
Future Prospects
The introduction of the Composable Data Platform marks a significant step towards a more decentralized and efficient data ecosystem on Stellar. By enabling easier data access and distribution, Stellar aims to support a broader range of applications and use-cases, ultimately driving innovation and growth within its network.
For more detailed insights into the architecture, goals, and capabilities of the Composable Data Platform, follow the series of articles published by Stellar.