Sony’s Ethereum Layer-2 Blockchain Takes Next Step With Testnet Launch, Dev Incentives

Sony Group's blockchain subsidiary has rolled out the "Minato" testnet for its Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, Soneium, alongside an incubation program aimed at onboarding developers.

It follows the multinational conglomerate’s announcement last week via a joint venture between Sony and Web3 infrastructure provider Startale—known as Sony Block Solutions Labs.

Minato features a development environment that mirrors mainnet conditions to support high-volume applications and drive blockchain adoption, according to a statement on Tuesday.

Astar Network, a blockchain platform known for its multi-chain capabilities, will also support the testnet phase in providing initial liquidity and a range of fungible and non-fungible digital assets.

While a blockchain network associated with a global household name promises to attract developers and users alike, it remains to be seen how much traction the initiative will garner.

The company boasts a global presence with 900 million Sony devices in use, supported by a wide range of movies, television shows, music, and the PlayStation Network—its flagship digital media entertainment service.

In any case, Tuesday’s testnet launch will be followed up with a builder-focused program, Soneium Spark, giving developers access to infrastructure, mentorships, and industry partnerships. Sony is hoping its program will boost interest and spur growth on its network.

Preregistration for Spark is now underway, with applications expected to open in the “coming days,” Sota Watanabe, founder of Astar Network and CEO of Startale, told Decrypt.

“Over 50 projects have started building or have said they will deploy on Soneium already,” Watanabe said. “We plan to make a wide and strong community together with builders.”

Spark seeks to facilitate potential intellectual property collaborations and strategic partnerships with industry enterprises. In the context of Web3, this may involve co-developing blockchain technologies, sharing technological innovations, or collaborating on the creation of decentralized applications.

Developer participants will also gain access to exchanges and networking opportunities alongside venture capitalists interested in supporting the growth of their Web3 projects.

Eligible developers can secure investments of up to $100,000 to build on Minato, with further funding opportunities available through the program's partner network.

In addition to the partner network, Circle, Optimism, Alchemy, The Graph, and Chainlink will provide expertise to support developers, according to the statement.