Noir

Noir is a browser extension wallet built specifically for the Zcash ecosystem, designed to bring shielded transactions and DeFi functionality into a single interface. Its core business covers shielded transfers, cross-chain swaps, lending/borrowing, and DApp connections, all while keeping users within Zcash's privacy layer. The wallet uses a three-address model: a transparent address for deposits/withdrawals, a second transparent address for transaction signing, and a shielded address for private balances. This architecture addresses a key market pain point—previously, Zcash users had to expose their transaction history when interacting with DeFi protocols, breaking privacy. Noir solves this by enabling private DeFi interactions without leaving the shielded environment. Another pain point is the lack of native DeFi tools in the Zcash ecosystem; Noir fills this gap by integrating with platforms like Rhea Finance, LeoDEX, and NEAR's chain abstraction to offer swaps, lending, and perpetual trading directly in-wallet.

Over the past six months (March to September 2026), Noir has progressed from private beta to public availability. In May, the wallet launched its private beta, followed by a public mainnet release later that month. June saw the release of a TypeScript SDK for DApp integration, a partnership with ZcashNames for human-readable addresses, and integration with Rhea's cross-chain infrastructure. The wallet was listed on the Chrome Web Store in mid-June, adding RPC/explorer switching and improved recovery features. In July, a desktop app was introduced, and the wallet added support for the Ironwood network upgrade and .zcash/.zec name addresses. No significant negative events have been publicly reported during this period.