<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/Sony” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Sony Group has officially launched the <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/soneium” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Soneium Blockchain Mainnet, a key development in its push towards web3 technologies.
The mainnet, developed by Sony subsidiaries Sony Block Solutions Labs, S.BLOX Inc. and SNFT Inc., aims to simplify blockchain adoption by providing tools for creators and businesses to develop and deploy applications.
Accompanying the launch are updates to the crypto asset exchange platform, S.BLOX, and the introduction of an nft issuance and fan engagement service.
What is the soneio?
First announced in August 2024, Soneium is developed by Sony Group with the vision of creating an “open Internet that transcends borders.” The Soneium blockchain offers developers a robust environment for building applications, while also providing tools for creators to monetize their work and engage with the public.
The test network, Soneium Minato served as a foundational phase for the project, allowing developers to test applications before deploying them to the main network. During the testing phase, more than 14 million user accounts were created and transactions exceeded 47 million.
With the launch of the mainnet, developers can now migrate applications from the testnet and enable real cryptocurrency transactions. The mainnet also supports in-app payments, allowing creators to generate income while encouraging interactions with their fan communities.
What projects are there in Soneium?
The Soneium blockchain hosts a variety of applications, reflecting its versatility and appeal to developers. During the testnet phase, the projects were selected through the <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/soneium/status/1859991223886340595″ target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Soneium Spark Incubation Program—which received more than 1,700 applications.
This program supported the development of 32 key projects, along with numerous independent applications created by developers. These projects span a wide range of categories, from entertainment and gaming, financial services, social applications, and many more.
One notable initiative is SNFT Inc.'s upcoming nft-based fan engagement platform, launching in February 2025, to allow companies to issue nfts and track audience engagement metrics.
Sony's entertainment divisions have also announced plans to integrate blockchain into their operations:
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- Sony Pictures Entertainment (Japan): Access to exclusive content for buyers of certain Prime Video movies.
- Sony Music Publishing (Japan): nft campaigns tied to live performances, such as those by girl group SANDAL TELEPHONE.
- Sony Music France: Limited Edition nft Distribution for Members of the Music Community Sunny B. 1991 Web3.
Sony plans to conduct more experiments with blockchain applications in its business units, focusing on simplifying decentralized technologies and making them more practical for creators and the public.