Sony Launches Soneium Layer-2 Blockchain With Two Major Projects

Japanese tech giant Sony has officially launched the mainnet for its Layer-2 blockchain, Soneium, alongside two groundbreaking projects. With this move into the blockchain space, Sony aims to empower fans and creators, fostering global connections while safeguarding their rights. The debut projects on the Soneium network include an NFT-based fan marketing platform and a revamped crypto exchange services platform.

Here’s What Sony’s Soneium Platform Has to Offer

Built on the Ethereum blockchain, Sony’s Soneium is a layer-2 network designed with the goal of inspiring creativity and emotion for its users. The Sony Blockchain Solution Labs (BSL) stated that the launch of layer-2 platform seeks to transcend social, economic, and regional barriers thereby creating an open internet wherein ideas can thrive and value can flow freely and equitably.

Being an open-to-all platform, Soneium is a public blockchain that fosters inclusivity without limitations. It leverages the OP Stack and Superchain technology developed by the Optimism Foundation to deliver a cutting-edge blockchain experience. Speaking on the mainnet launch, Jun Watanabe, Chairman, Sony Block Solutions Labs, said:

“Soneium is built to transcend boundaries, empowering innovation and collaboration. At Sony BSL, we’re proud to create a platform redefining how communities and creators interact with the internet.”

Sony announced Soneium Layer-2 blockchain last year in August 2024. Since then, it has announced developers to test several applications on the “Soneium Minato” testnet. Furthermore, they have also introduced several applications, spanning entertainment, including games, NFTs, and social platforms, as well as financial and other utility-focused apps. The network has surpassed 14 million accounts and verified over 47 million transactions.

Stablecoin issuer Circle was quick to announce a collaboration with Sony to introduce its USDC stablecoin on the Soneium Layer-2, in a push into the Web3 industry.

Two Key Projects Launched on the Layer-2 Blockchain

The official press release from Sony shows that two new projects will launch on the Soneium mainnet soon. The first is the NFT-based fan marketing platform provided by SNFT Inc. Starting February 2025, this fan marketing platform will go live offering comprehensive support for companies engaging in NFT initiatives. This covers everything from execution to the analysis of fan engagement metrics tied to NFTs.

The service will enable businesses to easily issue NFTs, opening new opportunities for fan interaction and creating engaging user experiences to strengthen relationships. Unlike many Web3 platforms that require separate crypto wallet setups, the new platform will feature an integrated web-based wallet with social login functionality.

In another development, S.BLOX Corporation has rebranded its “WhaleFin” platform into “S. BLOX” to enhance user experience for crypto trading as well as interacting with apps on Soneium. The platform is a crucial addition, as crypto assets serve as primary payment methods within Soneium’s Web3 applications.

To celebrate the launch, S.BLOX Corporation has kicked off a promotional campaign starting today. Users who open a new account and trade crypto assets will receive BTC worth 3,000 yen as a reward.