- Sony Block Solutions Labs has launched Soneium Minato, the testnet for its Soneium blockchain
- Soneium Minato has offered a fast, cost-effective environment for developers to build Web3 applications
- Sony has initiated an incubation program alongside Soneium Minato, encouraging developers to start experimenting with the platform
Sony Block Solutions Labs has launched the testnet of its Soneium blockchain, dubbed “Soneium Minato”, and has launched an incubation program. The Ethereum layer-2 solution is aimed at enhancing Web3 accessibility and innovation and represents a significant step in Sony’s broader vision to “realize the open internet that transcends boundaries.” Sony says that Soneium Minato offers a fast and cost-effective development environment for creators and developers eager to build Web3 applications and has called for developers to start trying it out.
Sony Wants to Open Up Blockchain Development
Sony announced its Soneium blockchain last week, having developed the protocol in collaboration with Startale Labs, the team behind the Astar Network, utilizing the Optimism OP Stack. The Minato testnet is an Ethereum-compatible public blockchain which allows developers to experience the platform’s capabilities firsthand.
The platform aims to democratize Web3 development, making it accessible to those new to the field, with the environment hoping to foster early community engagement, enabling developers to gather crucial feedback for improving their services.
“We have opened our testnet as a first step to foster a fan community centered on creators that can connect diverse values through Soneium,” said Jun Watanabe, Chairman of Sony Blockchain Solutions Labs.
Soneium Spark Hopes to Attract New Talent
In tandem with the Soneium Minato launch, Sony has announced the upcoming Soneium Spark—an incubation program designed to nurture visionary developers and builders. The program, starting in mid-October, offers participants up to $100,000 in investments per team, along with expert mentorship, technical support, and strategic partnerships.
Soneium Spark is set to propel innovative ideas into market-ready solutions, bridging the gap between Web3 and traditional industries. “Soneium becomes stronger by partnering with builders. Through Soneium Spark, we bridge Web3 and Web2, startups and enterprises, and innovative builders and the mass users,” added Sota Watanabe, Director of Sony Blockchain Solutions Labs.
Sony’s commitment to advancing Web3 technology through Soneium is evident in its robust support package for participants in the Spark program. This includes marketing, business, and technical support, designed to accelerate the growth and success of participating projects.
As Sony continues to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem, Soneium is poised to become a cornerstone of global Web3 infrastructure, driving adoption across diverse use cases.
