Catena-X breaking change release 2024 (24.05 and 24.08): What you need to know

Innovations in the Catena-X Data Ecosystem

Exciting changes are coming to Catena-X! As we move towards Q4 of 2024, Catena-X is preparing to roll out significant upgrades, bringing substantial advancements to our data ecosystem. Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead of the curve.

Release Timeline

Mark your calendars! The Catena-X release timeline is structured in three waves to ensure a smooth transition for all participants:

Wave 1 – Internal “Preparation” Phase: This phase outlines essential steps to prepare your systems for the forthcoming updates.
Wave 2 – Integrated/Joint Test Phase: Details for this phase will be shared as we progress.
Wave 3 – Go-Live in Production: Final steps and details will be communicated closer to the go-live date.

The steps that need to be taken in the individual waves depend on your role in the data ecosystem.

Key Actions for Ecosystem Participants

To ensure you are well-prepared, here’s a breakdown of actions required for different roles within the data ecosystem:

01 Data Providers and Consumer

Dear Data Providers and Consumers,

To seamlessly integrate with the upcoming service upgrades, you must undertake the following tasks:

Wave 1: Preparation Phase

  1. Upgrade to EDC v0.7.3 (if self-hosted/self-managed): Ensure compatibility by implementing EDC v0.7.3 with necessary extensions. Note that older versions will no longer be supported.
  2. Update Digital Twin Registry to v0.4.3 (if in use and self-hosted/self-managed): Deploy and configure the latest version for optimal integration.
  3. Upgrade Item Relationship Service / Trace-X (if in use): This upgrade is mandatory for alignment with the new architecture and features.
  4. Update Simple Data Exchanger (if in use): Necessary for ongoing support and new policy implementation.
  5. Adapt Data Assets, Policies, Contract Definitions: Revise and create new assets and policies according to updated standards.
  6. Adapt Backend Integration: Ensure your backend services comply with updated requirements.
  7. (Re-)Certification: Complete the self-assessment for re-certification, to be shared with your chosen operator later.
  8. Prepare for Connectivity & Integration Tests: Plan for these crucial tests to ensure a smooth implementation.
  9. Upgrade Knowledge Agent (if in use): Upgrade to the latest version for enhanced data intelligence capabilities.

Wave 2: Integrated/Joint Test Phase

Details will be provided as we approach this phase.

Wave 3: Go-Live in Production

Final details will be shared closer to the go-live date.

Support Initiatives for a Seamless Transition

To assist you through these changes, we are offering:

  • Technical Upgrade Events: Attend events to understand technical aspects and address any queries.
  • Collaborative Release Preparation: Participate in joint release preparations for compatibility assurance.

Next Steps and Further Communication

This checklist for Wave 1 is your starting point. We will provide further updates as we move through each wave.

Action Required

Start preparing immediately by familiarizing yourself with the new open-source releases of Tractus-X and Catena-X. Early preparation is key to a smooth transition.

We are committed to working closely with you to navigate these changes and enhance our collective experience in the Catena-X data ecosystem.

02 Onboarding Service Providers

Dear Onboarding Service Providers,

As we gear up for the October 2024 go-live, it’s crucial for OSPs to prepare for the upcoming changes. Here’s a breakdown of tasks you need to undertake:

Wave 1: Preparation Phase

  1. Application Adaptation / Legal and Compliance: Revise your registration components to align with the latest standards.
  2. (Re-)Certification: Complete the self-assessment for re-certification.
  3. Prepare for Connectivity & Integration Tests: Plan for these crucial tests.

Wave 2: Integrated/Joint Test Phase

Details will be provided later.

Wave 3: Go-Live in Production

Final details will be shared closer to the go-live date.

Support Initiatives for a Seamless Transition

  • Technical Upgrade Events: (N/A for OSPs)
  • Collaborative Release Preparation: Join joint release preparations to ensure system compatibility.

Next Steps and Further Communication

This checklist for Wave 1 is your starting point. Further updates will follow as we progress.

Action Required

Communicate the updates for 24.05 and 24.08 to your clients and start preparations immediately.

We are committed to supporting you through these changes to enhance our ecosystem together.

03 Enablement Service Providers

Dear Enablement Service Providers,

Here’s what you need to do to prepare for the upcoming upgrades:

Wave 1: Preparation Phase

  1. Upgrade to EDC v0.7.3: Implement the new version with necessary extensions.
  2. Update Digital Twin Registry to v0.4.3 (if in use): Ensure you are using the latest version.
  3. Upgrade Item Relationship Service / Trace-X (if in use): Align with the new architecture.
  4. Update Simple Data Exchanger (if in use): Ensure ongoing support.
  5. Adapt Data Assets, Policies, Contract Definitions: Revise according to updated standards.
  6. Adapt Backend Integration: Customize backend services as needed.
  7. Knowledge Agent (if used): Upgrade to the latest version.
  8. (Re-)Certification: Complete the self-assessment for re-certification.
  9. Prepare for Connectivity & Integration Tests: Plan for these tests.

Wave 2: Integrated/Joint Test Phase

Details will be provided later.

Wave 3: Go-Live in Production

Final details will be shared closer to the go-live date.

Support Initiatives for a Seamless Transition

  • Technical Upgrade Events: Attend events to understand technical aspects.
  • Collaborative Release Preparation: Participate in joint preparations.

Next Steps and Further Communication

This checklist for Wave 1 is your starting point. Further updates will follow.

Action Required

Communicate updates to your clients and start preparations immediately.

We are committed to supporting you through these changes to enhance our ecosystem together.

04 Business Application Providers

Dear Business Application Providers,

Prepare for the upcoming changes by undertaking the following tasks:

Wave 1: Preparation Phase

  1. Upgrade to EDC v0.7.3: Implement the new version with necessary extensions.
  2. Update Digital Twin Registry to v0.4.3: Ensure you are using the latest version.
  3. Upgrade AAS Server/Submodel Server to v.3.1: Optional but recommended.
  4. Application Adaptation / Legal and Compliance: Align applications with new standards.
  5. (Re-)Certification: Complete the self-assessment for re-certification.
  6. Prepare for Connectivity & Integration Tests: Plan for these tests.
  7. Upgrade Knowledge Agent (if in use): Upgrade to the latest version.

Wave 2: Integrated/Joint Test Phase

Details will be provided later.

Wave 3: Go-Live in Production

Final details will be shared closer to the go-live date.

Support Initiatives for a Seamless Transition

  • Technical Upgrade Events: Attend events to understand technical aspects.
  • Collaborative Release Preparation: Participate in joint preparations.

Next Steps and Further Communication

This checklist for Wave 1 is your starting point. Further updates will follow.

Action Required

Communicate updates to your clients and start preparations immediately.

We are committed to supporting you through these changes to enhance our ecosystem together.