Sony Block Solutions Labs, the Singapore-based blockchain subsidiary of Sony, announced the launch of its Soneium blockchain mainnet. This marks a significant move into blockchain technology for the multinational conglomerate.

Soneium is a Layer 2 blockchain developed using Ethereum’s OP Stack and Superchain technologies. The network aims to address challenges in content creation, fan engagement, and equitable value distribution between creators and fans. Prior to the mainnet launch, its testnet reported 15.4 million active wallets and over 50 million transactions, signaling interest and potential adoption.

Focus on Content Creators and Communities

Soneium targets creators and fans as its core audience, introducing initiatives such as:

• NFT-based Fan Marketing Platforms for fan interaction.
• Soneium Spark, an incubation program to support innovation.

The company described the network as a “public blockchain” designed to bridge Web2 and Web3, emphasizing inclusivity and creativity. Sony BSL has stated its intention to simplify blockchain interactions and explore frameworks that combine digital and physical user experiences.

Token Blacklisting Sparks Debate

The launch has drawn criticism after reports of certain tokens being blacklisted on the network. These tokens, which allegedly infringed on intellectual property, were made untradable and inaccessible via the Soneium block explorer.

One affected token, “Aibo”, was inspired by Sony’s robotic dog series and had a reported value of $700,000. Developers behind the project claimed they were working with Soneium to resolve the issue.

Critics, including pseudonymous founders of memecoin projects, accused Soneium of excessive control, freezing user funds, and halting trading. Some claimed that over $100,000 in ETH was impacted.

Soneium responded by reiterating its commitment to protecting intellectual property while maintaining Web3 principles of openness and innovation.

Sony’s new Ethereum L2 is actively blacklisting memecoins they don’t like, instantly nuking everyone’s position to 0

what makes you think that other centralized L2s won’t do the same if push comes to shove?

don’t take your freedoms for granted

— alon (@a1lon9) January 14, 2025

What Lies Ahead?

With the launch complete, Sony BSL plans to expand Soneium’s capabilities and explore new applications. However, the platform’s approach to enforcing intellectual property and managing token restrictions may remain a point of contention as the blockchain community assesses its long-term impact.