Sony Group’s Soneium Blockchain Mainnet Now Live

Sony Group has officially launched the Soneium blockchain mainnet, a key development in its push into 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.

Alongside the launch are updates to the cryptoasset exchange platform, S.BLOX, and the introduction of an NFT issuance and fan engagement service.

What is Soneium?

First announced in August 2024, Soneium is developed by Sony Group with the vision of creating an “Open Internet that Transcends Boundaries.” The Soneium blockchain offers developers a robust environment to build applications, whilst providing tools for creators to monetize their work and engage with audiences.

The testnet, Soneium Minato, served as a foundational phase for the project, enabling developers to test applications before deploying them on the mainnet. Over 14 million user accounts were created during the testnet phase, with transactions exceeding 47 million.

With the mainnet launch, developers can now migrate applications from the testnet and enable real cryptocurrency transactions. The mainnet also supports in-app payments, allowing creators to generate revenue whilst fostering interactions with their fan communities.

What projects are on Soneium?

The Soneium blockchain hosts a variety of applications, reflecting its versatility and appeal to developers. During the testnet phase, projects were selected through the Soneium Spark incubation program—which received over 1,700 applications.

This program supported the development of 32 key projects, alongside numerous independent applications created by developers. These projects span a wide range of categories from entertainment and gaming, financial services, social apps and many more.

One notable initiative is the upcoming NFT-based fan engagement platform by SNFT Inc., set to launch 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:

• • Sony Pictures Entertainment (Japan): Exclusive content access for buyers of certain Prime Video films.
  • Sony Music Publishing (Japan): NFT campaigns tied to live performances, such as those featuring the girl group SANDAL TELEPHONE.
  • Sony Music France: Distribution of limited-edition NFTs for members of the Sunny B. 1991 Web3 music community.

Sony plans further experiments with blockchain applications across its business units, focusing on simplifying decentralised technologies and making them more practical for creators and audiences.