The Nexus Layer 1 is more than a protocol — it’s a programmable foundation for building the next generation of verifiable applications. To help developers go from zero to launch, we’ve expanded our suite of example apps and overhauled our documentation to make onboarding smoother and deeper.
Here’s what’s new — and how to use it.
Concrete examples: Production-grade apps to build from
Whether you’re exploring token workflows, experimenting with NFTs, or designing trust-minimized compute flows, the new Layer 1 example apps offer concrete, production-minded patterns to start from:
Default lock/retrieve app A foundational contract that allows users to lock tokens and retrieve them later — ideal for onboarding flows, staking contracts, or time-bound actions. This app features a comprehensive end-to-end tutorial that walks developers through building, deploying, and testing while introducing key L1 development concepts along the way.
Counter app A minimal example that demonstrates how to manage state transitions on Nexus Layer 1. Perfect for first-time builders looking to understand how persistent state works in a verifiable execution environment.
NFT platform app A fully working NFT system, including minting, ownership tracking, and metadata handling. This app shows how Nexus L1 supports asset programmability and digital identity primitives out of the box.
Token swap app An example of liquidity mechanics within the Layer 1 system—swapping between tokens, managing balances, and interacting with other contracts. A great reference for developers working on financial primitives or multi-asset interactions.
Each of these apps is not just a toy demo — they’re designed as reference architectures for scalable, secure applications in the verifiable internet era.
Documentation that teaches and guides
We’ve made major improvements to the Nexus documentation, with an emphasis on clarity, structure, and visuals:
Network and architecture pages Now include richer explanations of how Nexus Layer 1 operates across consensus, execution, and data availability. We’ve refined key sections like “Network Topology” and “Execution Layers” to improve readability and depth.
Visual diagrams New architecture diagrams depict how system components interact—bridging the mental model between code and infrastructure.
These updates make it easier for developers at all levels to understand how Nexus works under the hood, and how to build within that framework.
zkVM: Now easier to learn and use
Zero-knowledge virtual machines (ZKVMs) are a core part of Nexus’s infrastructure. To help developers adopt ZK-native patterns, we’ve overhauled the zkVM documentation with:
A clear, concise introduction to what zkVMs are—and how they compare to traditional VMs.
Improved formatting and visual flow for easier scanning and reference.
Direct, actionable guidance on how to integrate zkVMs into Nexus-based applications.
This positions developers to design apps that are both powerful and provable —from compute marketplaces to trustless oracles.
Get started
With these tools—real examples, refined docs, and a more approachable zkVM —you can go from concept to code with confidence. The Nexus Layer 1 isn’t just a platform. It’s a canvas for building a more Verifiable Internet.
Start building at docs.nexus.xyz and join the conversation in Discord.
