Sony has officially launched the mainnet for its blockchain platform, Soneium, marking a major milestone in its Web3 ambitions. Developed by Sony Block Solutions Labs, a collaboration between Sony Group and Web3 infrastructure provider Startale, Soneium aims to revolutionize entertainment, gaming, and finance with blockchain technology. After a successful testnet phase, Soneium now boasts 15 million active wallets and over 47 million transactions. “With Soneium Mainnet, we take the next step in creating an open internet that connects cultures and brings people onchain,” Sony announced. The platform’s mainnet launch follows the earlier deployment of the testnet “Soneium Minato,” which allowed developers and users to explore the network’s capabilities. Blockscout data reveals that Soneium’s blockchain already has 6.8 million blocks, with an average block time of just 2 seconds. The platform supports a vast ecosystem, including 7.3 million contracts and a range of applications developed during its testnet phase. Over 32 projects from the “Soneium Spark” incubation program, selected from more than 1,700 submissions, are now live, alongside additional independent apps spanning NFTs, gaming, and finance. Sony’s vision for Soneium is ambitious yet clear: to create a blockchain-powered internet where creativity thrives, and users are empowered to adopt Web3 technology. “Our mission is to make Web3 more accessible while fostering innovation and collaboration,” said Sota Watanabe, Director of Sony Block Solutions Labs. To support these goals, Soneium has introduced several infrastructure services to enhance user experience. The Fan Marketing Platform, developed by SNFT Inc., provides a one-stop solution for companies launching NFT projects , covering everything from execution to data analysis. Additionally, Soneium’s S.BLOX crypto exchange services offer new opportunities for creators and brands to explore blockchain technology. Sony’s move into Web3 follows its acquisition of the Japanese crypto exchange WhaleFin in 2023, which it later renamed S.BLOX. This acquisition laid the groundwork for Sony’s broader Web3 strategy, enabling it to provide robust crypto services and tools. In a significant partnership, Soneium has teamed up with Chainlink to implement its Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP). This collaboration enhances Soneium’s ability to connect with other blockchains, making it easier for developers to create cross-chain solutions and ensuring seamless integration across the ecosystem. The launch of the Soneium mainnet represents a seamless transition for projects developed on the testnet, thanks to consistent network specifications. This approach ensures that apps created during the test phase can easily migrate to the production environment, reducing friction for developers and users. Sony first announced Soneium’s development in August 2024, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of entertainment, gaming, and finance through blockchain. With the mainnet now live, Soneium is positioned to become a cornerstone of Web3 innovation, fostering creativity and providing practical applications for a wide range of industries. By prioritizing accessibility and user experience, Sony is setting the stage for a new era in blockchain adoption , proving its commitment to leading in Web3 technologies.
