Why ZK Proofs Will Power the Future of the Internet

Zero-knowledge proofs (ZK) used to be an academic concept requiring $100M and a team of cryptographers. Now, according to Succinct CEO Uma Roy, it’s as easy as writing code.

In this interview from TOKEN2049, Uma breaks down how ZK is transforming blockchain scaling, proving the authenticity of digital media, protecting user privacy, and reshaping internet trust.

Whether you’re into crypto infrastructure or AI verification, this conversation is a must-watch.

00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction (Uma Roy, CEO of Succinct)
00:34 - Uma Roy’s Background & Journey into Crypto and ZK Proofs
01:17 - Uma’s Mathematical Background and Influences
01:56 - Early Encounters with Bitcoin and Crypto
02:54 - Introduction to ZK Proofs as Crypto Technology
03:11 - Succinct’s Mission and What They Do
04:20 - History and Practical Evolution of ZK Proofs
05:21 - ZK Proofs Use Case: Authenticating Images and Deepfakes
06:07 - Role of Succinct and Technology Flow (Camera to Platform)
07:03 - Layman’s Walkthrough & Verifying Proofs
07:52 - ZK Proofs Use Case: Identity Verification and Privacy
09:24 - Blockchain Scaling with ZK Proofs (Ethereum, Bitcoin, Layer 2s)
10:32 - Efficiency Gains and Decentralization via ZK Proofs
11:39 - Succinct’s Position in the Blockchain Stack
12:32 - Real-World Integration and Customer Examples
14:36 - Succinct’s Advantages Over Other ZK-PVMs
16:50 - Benchmarking Security, Speed, Developer Experience
17:06 - Arbitrum and Succinct Partnership Details
18:24 - Why the Arbitrum Partnership Is Important
19:49 - ZK Proof Technology Beyond Ethereum (Solana and Others)
20:38 - Non-Ethereum Ecosystem Work and Broader Applicability
21:36 - Major Use Cases for ZK Proofs Outside Blockchain (Identity, Media)
23:00 - Why ZK Proofs Don’t Require Blockchain, Regulatory Considerations
25:15 - Quantum Computing and ZK Proofs’ Security
26:00 - The Future of ZK Proofs in Crypto and Everyday Life
27:00 - Mass Adoption, Branding, and Accessibility of ZK Technology
28:58 - Why Ethereum Is Best Suited for ZK Proofs
29:23 - Final Thoughts and Outro