TLDR
- Sony has formally introduced Soneium, a Layer-2 blockchain network constructed on Ethereum, incorporating seamless tools for NFT crafting and crypto trading within its two key initiatives.
- The platform has showcased impressive success with more than 14 million user accounts and 47 million verified transactions during its testnet period, indicating robust interest.
- Circle has teamed up with Sony to integrate the USDC stablecoin into Soneium, enhancing its Web3 functionalities.
- SNFT Inc. is set to unveil an NFT-driven fan marketing platform in February 2025, designed for effortless NFT creation and social login features.
- S.BLOX Corporation, formerly known as WhaleFin, launches a newly designed crypto trading platform with a promotional offer awarding 3,000 yen in Bitcoin to new sign-ups.
Japanese technology giant Sony has launched its latest blockchain endeavor titled Soneium, marking a pivotal move into the Web3 realm. The Layer-2 blockchain platform has gone live this week, introducing two main initiatives targeting fan engagement and cryptocurrency exchange.
The Soneium network builds upon Sony’s previous test network, known as “Soneium Minato,” which has seen considerable success since its inception. launch in August 2024 During the testing phase, the network garnered over 14 million user accounts and processed upwards of 47 million transactions, demonstrating strong enthusiasm for Sony's blockchain capabilities.
Built on the Ethereum blockchain, Soneium harnesses technology from the Optimism Foundation, including the OP Stack and Superchain systems, which facilitates faster and more cost-effective transaction processing compared to conventional blockchain networks.
Jun Watanabe, Chairman of Sony Block Solutions Labs, articulated the company's vision for the platform. 'Soneium is designed to transcend boundaries, fostering innovation and collaboration,' he mentioned, underscoring Sony’s aim to foster an open internet where ideas and value can flow freely.
A significant milestone for Soneium is its partnership with Circle, the entity behind the USDC stablecoin. This alliance will incorporate USDC into the Soneium ecosystem, facilitating user transactions and participation in the platform’s diverse offerings.
The moment has arrived. Soneium Mainnet is operational! 💿
Introduced by Sony Block Solutions Labs (Sony BSL), a subsidiary, Soneium represents a Layer 2 blockchain that equips creators, fans, and communities with the means to defend their rights, forge global connections, and establish an open internet that... @Sony The foremost of two major initiatives launching on Soneium is an NFT-centric fan marketing platform by SNFT Inc. Slated for a February 2025 release, this platform will assist companies in launching and managing NFT initiatives, complete with analytics tools for measuring fan interaction and NFT engagement. pic.twitter.com/4pTxYdueHY
— Soneium 💿 (@soneium) January 14, 2025
In contrast to numerous other blockchain platforms, the SNFT Inc. approach offers a streamlined login procedure. Users won’t need to create separate crypto wallets, as the platform features an integrated web wallet compatible with usual social media logins.
The second prominent project is from S.BLOX Corporation, which has rebranded its WhaleFin platform to align more closely with Soneium’s aims. The newly named S.BLOX focuses on simplifying crypto trading and facilitating user interaction with various apps on the Soneium network.
To commemorate its launch, S.BLOX Corporation has kicked off a promotional event offering newcomers 3,000 yen in Bitcoin when they set up an account and start trading crypto assets.
Sony’s blockchain development team has prioritized making the platform broadly accessible. Soneium is designed as a public blockchain, meaning it is open to everyone without the need for specific permissions or restrictions.
During its test phase, the platform supported a variety of applications including entertainment, gaming, NFT platforms, social media utilities, and financial services.
Sony Block Solutions Labs collaborated with Startale Group in 2024 to craft the Web3 infrastructure underpinning Soneium. This partnership was instrumental in laying the technical groundwork for the current mainnet debut.
The Soneium network is geared toward helping creators and fans establish more direct connections. By leveraging blockchain technology, it equips users with the means to create and share digital content while safeguarding creator rights.
Developers who trialed their applications on the Soneium Minato testnet can now migrate their projects to the main network. This shift allows for real-world application of community-driven events and in-app cryptocurrency payments.
Advancements within the Layer-2 system aim to tackle typical blockchain issues like slow transaction speeds and high fees. Building upon Ethereum, Soneium processes data more effectively while ensuring security.
Editor-in-Chief at Blockonomi and founder of Kooc Media, a UK-based online media company. Advocate for Open-Source Software, Blockchain Technology, and a Free and Fair Internet.
