Vitalik Buterin has presented a new vision for Ethereum's scaling strategy. According to his claims, the role of layer 2 solutions should not be limited to mere scaling functions but should aim for a broader range of feature deployments.

Specifically, he focuses on continuous improvements to Ethereum's layer 1. If future increases in gas limits and other enhancements improve the processing capacity of the underlying layer 1 network itself, Buterin pointed out that this could lead to a significant reduction in transaction fees.

In such a scenario, layer 2 solutions will need to go beyond just scaling extensions and aim to provide their own unique value. In other words, they should differentiate themselves by offering distinctive services and benefits. This perspective suggests that the entire blockchain industry is maturing technologically and that the functional differentiation across network layers is progressing.