Sony launches public testnet for its L2 network Soneium

BlockBeats news, on August 28, Sony's blockchain division Sony Block Solutions Labs is launching a public testnet and developer incubation program for its Soneium network.

Soneium is an Ethereum L2 based on Op Stack, designed to provide a "cost-effective development environment" for building consumer applications. Circle, Optimism, Alchemy, The Graph, Chainlink and Astar Network will all be early testers of the network. The project is a joint venture between Sony Group Corporation and Startale Labs, launched in 2023, and recently transferred to Sony Network Communications Labs. The two companies also plan to integrate the ASTR token as a "key asset" on the EVM-compatible Minato testnet.

In addition, Sony said at the launch of the testnet last week that Astar Network will integrate its zkEVM assets and underlying infrastructure with Soneium to increase the initial liquidity of the new chain. Sony subsidiaries, including Sony Music, Sony Pictures, and Sony Innovation Fund, will participate in the Soneium Spark incubation program. Applicants will receive up to $100,000 in start-up funding and access to exchanges and venture capital networks. In addition, Sony subsidiary Quetta Web Co. previously acquired the cryptocurrency exchange WhaleFin and plans to rename and relaunch it this year.

Sony said, "This dual move marks an important milestone for Sony Group Corporation's entry into Web3, and it will use its vast global influence and technological expertise in entertainment, games, and consumer electronics to promote ecosystem growth and accelerate adoption."