Jupiter Spins Off Metis v7 Into an Independent Project

The Metis project, which has served as Jupiter’s “cornerstone router” since 2021, has launched version 7 (v7) and transitioned into an independent, open-source swap primitive. This move positions Metis as a neutral, community-focused infrastructure tool for the entire Solana ecosystem, designed for builders who require full control over transaction execution, including custom logic and self-managed RPC.

The Rationale Behind Metis' Separation

Jupiter announced the launch of Metis v7 and its separation from the Jupiter ecosystem, stating that with its platform now powered by the multi-router system Ultra, it is the opportune moment for Metis to operate independently.

While Metis has been available as a public service since 2021, the launch of Metis v7 introduces significant improvements to its routing engine, including new algorithms and enhanced performance, alongside integration with over 60 liquidity venues. This v7 release marks the final version to be managed directly by Jupiter, as the project formally shifts to an independent public good status.

The separation addresses several key points: Jupiter Ultra now incorporates multiple routers; Metis quotes were sometimes misattributed as “Jupiter quotes” within the ecosystem; and Jupiter has evolved into a comprehensive DeFi super app with features exceeding Metis’ standalone capabilities, such as the Ultra execution engine’s Request for Quote (RFQ) system and multi-router aggregation.

Metis Development History

Metis has been integral to the Solana ecosystem since 2021, when Jupiter first developed its aggregation engine and made it accessible to builders via an API and a Binary. Its primary function has been to optimize transaction routing by analyzing real-time market data.

Over time, the technology has advanced to include features like returning raw instruction-level payloads rather than pre-built transactions. It also boasts “Total Composability,” allowing developers to integrate custom instructions, modify operations, or invoke Metis from within any on-chain program (CPI). Metis distinguished itself from other ecosystem components through its focus on precise transaction control and regulation.

Distinguishing Jupiter from Metis

Metis is designed as a low-level, high-control swap primitive. The development team has provided examples illustrating its utility, emphasizing that it is now intended for builders who require “full authority” over their transactions, including custom logic, priority fees, slippage management, and transaction broadcasting.

In contrast, Jupiter Ultra is tailored for users who prefer an end-to-end exchange experience, encompassing automated execution, error handling, robust sandwich protection, and access to the most competitive execution fees across various routing sources. By separating, Metis can concentrate entirely on serving these specialized, control-intensive use cases.

The v7 update introduces advanced technical capabilities that will shape the future utility of the independent project. These include “Just-in-Time (JIT) aggregation,” which allows the router to compare multiple on-chain Prop AMMs at the moment of execution for optimal quotes, and “Brent Op Splitting,” a refined algorithm enabling trade splitting with extreme precision (down to 1 BPS) without compromising speed.

Access to the Metis v7 Binary Key will necessitate a stake of “10,000 JUP” to prevent spam, with access granted exclusively to users who obtain an API or Binary Key through the new website. Existing Metis Binary integrators have a one-month period to transition to the v7 standard.

The joint announcement of Metis v7 and its independence signifies the conclusion of its internal development phase under Jupiter. This transition effectively transfers a sophisticated, low-level routing primitive to the broader development community, enhancing the ecosystem's access to specialized tools while enabling Jupiter to focus on its expanded “super app” offerings through its platform.