TLDR

• Sony has officially launched Soneium, a Layer-2 blockchain mainnet built on Ethereum, featuring integrated tools for NFT creation and crypto trading through two major projects
• The platform has already demonstrated success with over 14 million accounts and 47 million verified transactions during its testnet phase
• Circle has partnered with Sony to bring USDC stablecoin to Soneium, expanding its Web3 capabilities
• SNFT Inc. will launch an NFT-based fan marketing platform in February 2025, offering streamlined NFT creation and social login functionality
• S.BLOX Corporation (formerly WhaleFin) introduces a revamped crypto trading platform with a promotional campaign offering 3,000 yen in BTC to new users

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Japanese technology giant Sony has launched its new blockchain network called Soneium, marking a major step into the Web3 space. The Layer-2 blockchain platform went live this week, introducing two key projects aimed at fan engagement and cryptocurrency trading.

The Soneium network builds on Sony’s earlier test version, known as “Soneium Minato,” which has proven successful since its launch in August 2024. During the testing phase, the network attracted more than 14 million user accounts and processed over 47 million transactions, showing strong user interest in Sony’s blockchain technology.

Built on top of the Ethereum blockchain, Soneium uses technology from the Optimism Foundation, including the OP Stack and Superchain systems. This technical foundation allows the platform to process transactions faster and more cheaply than traditional blockchain networks.

Jun Watanabe, Chairman of Sony Block Solutions Labs, explained the company’s vision for the platform. “Soneium is built to transcend boundaries, empowering innovation and collaboration,” he stated, highlighting Sony’s goal of creating an open internet where ideas and value can move freely.

One of the first major developments for Soneium is a partnership with Circle, the company behind the USDC stablecoin. This collaboration will bring USDC to the Soneium network, making it easier for users to make transactions and participate in the platform’s various services.

Today is the day. Soneium Mainnet is LIVE! 💿

Launched by Sony Block Solutions Labs (Sony BSL), a @Sony Group company, Soneium is a Layer 2 blockchain that empowers creators, fans, and communities to protect their rights, connect globally, and build an open internet that… pic.twitter.com/4pTxYdueHY

— Soneium 💿 (@soneium) January 14, 2025

The first of two major projects launching on Soneium is an NFT-based fan marketing platform by SNFT Inc. Set to launch in February 2025, this platform will help companies create and manage NFT projects. It includes tools for tracking fan engagement and analyzing how people interact with NFTs.

Unlike many other blockchain platforms, the SNFT Inc. system will feature a simpler login process. Users won’t need to set up separate crypto wallets, as the platform includes a built-in web wallet that works with regular social media logins.

The second major project involves S.BLOX Corporation, which has rebranded its WhaleFin platform to better align with Soneium’s goals. The renamed S.BLOX platform focuses on making crypto trading easier and helping users interact with various apps on the Soneium network.

To celebrate its launch, S.BLOX Corporation has started a promotion offering new users 3,000 yen worth of Bitcoin when they open an account and begin trading crypto assets.

Sony’s blockchain development team has focused on making the platform accessible to everyone. They designed Soneium as a public blockchain, meaning anyone can use it without special permissions or restrictions.

The platform has already supported various types of applications during its testing phase. These include entertainment apps, games, NFT platforms, social media tools, and financial services.

Sony Block Solutions Labs partnered with Startale Group in 2024 to develop the Web3 infrastructure that supports Soneium. This partnership helped create the technical foundation for the current mainnet launch.

The Soneium network aims to help creators and fans connect more directly. By using blockchain technology, it provides tools for creating and sharing digital content while protecting the rights of creators.

Developers who tested their applications on the Soneium Minato testnet can now move their projects to the main network. This transition allows for real-world use of features like community events and in-app payments using cryptocurrency.

Technical improvements in the Layer-2 system help solve common blockchain problems like slow processing times and high transaction fees. By building on top of Ethereum, Soneium can process data more efficiently while maintaining security.