Sony Unveils Ethereum Layer-2 Blockchain Soneium, Expands Web3 Footprint

Sony collaborates with Startale Labs on Soneium, aiming to democratize Web3 access.

  • Sony Group Corp. announced the launch of its Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, Soneium.
  • The blockchain is developed in collaboration with Web3 infrastructure firm Startale Labs.
  • Soneium will host Web3 games, NFT marketplaces, and entertainment-related services.
  • A test version for developers is set to be released soon, but the mainnet launch date remains undisclosed.
  • Sony’s move into Web3 is driven by concerns over centralization and optimism about decentralized systems.

In a notable stride towards embracing decentralized technology, Sony Group Corp. has announced the launch of Soneium, an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain. This initiative, revealed in a press release on Friday, marks Sony’s continued foray into Web3 technology.

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Developed in collaboration with Web3 infrastructure firm Startale Labs, Soneium is set to democratize access to blockchain-based services.

The new blockchain aims to be an inclusive platform, open to public participation. “We will work to create use cases that can spark the interest of people who have never used Web3 services,” the statement read.

From Web3 games and NFT marketplaces to various entertainment services, Soneium is poised to become a bustling hub of decentralized activity.

Partnering with Startale Labs

Sony’s partnership with Startale Labs, established last year, has been central to the development of Soneium.

The collaboration underscores Sony’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to expand its footprint in the burgeoning Web3 space.

With Soneium, Sony joins a select group of publicly traded companies that have ventured into blockchain technology, following in the footsteps of cryptocurrency exchange giant Coinbase with its Ethereum-based Layer-2 solution, Base.

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Notably, the announcement also highlighted that a test version of the blockchain would be rolled out shortly.

This will enable developers to get hands-on experience with Soneium, providing valuable feedback and paving the way for future enhancements. However, the date for the mainnet launch is still under wraps.

The Broader Web3 Strategy

Soneium’s unveiling follows closely on the heels of another strategic move by Sony. Just a month ago, the tech titan launched S.BLOX Inc., a revamped version of a cryptocurrency exchange it acquired last year.

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Featuring a redesigned interface and a new mobile app, S.BLOX Inc. is part of Sony’s broader strategy to solidify its presence in the Web3 domain.

Adding another layer to its Web3 ambitions, Sony is also exploring innovative concepts such as “super-fungible tokens.” A patent filed last year indicated that these more flexible types of NFTs could have significant applications, particularly in the realm of in-game assets.

Sony’s pivot towards Web3 technology is rooted in its concerns over the increasing centralization of information on traditional internet platforms.

The company sees decentralized systems as a promising alternative, one that can offer greater transparency, security, and user empowerment.

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Market Reactions and Future Outlook

The market’s reaction to Sony’s announcement was mixed. According to Benzinga Pro, Sony Group shares closed 1.61% lower at $91.30 during Thursday’s regular trading session. In contrast, Ethereum saw a 2% uptick, trading at $2,672.87 within the last 24 hours.

Check Ethereum’s Price

Sony’s bold steps into the Web3 landscape suggest a forward-thinking approach, one that aligns with increasing global interest in decentralized technologies. By launching Soneium, Sony is not just adapting to the future but actively shaping it.

As an investor or cryptocurrency enthusiast, it’s crucial to keep an eye on how Soneium will evolve. With the planned test version for developers, we can expect more detailed insights and potential use cases to emerge soon. The blockchain space is rapidly evolving, and Sony’s entry with Soneium is a development worth watching.


Sony’s foray into the Web3 space with Soneium is a significant move that could potentially reshape various aspects of digital interaction, from gaming to entertainment. While the market’s immediate response was cautious, the long-term implications of Sony’s blockchain endeavors could be far-reaching.

It’s an exciting time to be involved in the world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, as major players like Sony push the envelope and explore new frontiers.

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