Sony's blockchain division is expanding its Web3 ambitions by bringing Japan’s social media giant, LINE, onto its Soneium network, the company announced Wednesday. The partnership will see several popular LINE-based mini-apps integrated into Soneium, marking a major step toward mainstream blockchain adoption.
LINE, which boasts approximately 200 million active users, will introduce four of its mini-app games—Sleepagotchi, Farm Frens, Puffy Match, and Pocket Mob—to the Soneium ecosystem. These integrations will introduce blockchain-enabled features such as in-game rewards and digital asset transactions, bridging the gap between Web2 gaming and Web3 innovation.
The Vision Behind Soneium’s Expansion
Soneium is managed by Sony Block Solutions Labs (SBSL), a joint initiative between Sony and Singapore-based Startale Labs. According to SBSL, this partnership is designed to seamlessly introduce Web3 elements into familiar digital experiences, eliminating traditional barriers to blockchain adoption.
"LINE has built a strong presence, and integrating successful mini-apps into Soneium is the next step toward making Web3 more accessible," said Jun Watanabe, chairman of Sony Block Solutions Labs. "We believe this collaboration will drive engagement and adoption in ways that were previously difficult to achieve."
Soneium: A Rising Layer-2 Blockchain
Soneium officially launched in January 2025, with the goal of transitioning Web2 users into the Web3 ecosystem. The blockchain operates as a Layer-2 solution on Ethereum, utilizing Optimism’s OP Stack for scalability and efficiency.
Currently, Soneium ranks as the 15th largest Layer-2 network in terms of total value locked (TVL), according to data from L2 Beat. With LINE's massive user base joining the network, this collaboration could significantly boost Web3 adoption in Japan and beyond.
Sony’s move to onboard LINE into Soneium underscores a growing trend of traditional tech giants embracing blockchain technology. By leveraging LINE’s established ecosystem, Sony is positioning Soneium as a major player in Web3 gaming and digital interactions. If successful, this partnership could set the stage for further mainstream adoption of blockchain-powered applications.
LINE Corporation is a Tokyo-based subsidiary of Z Holdings, jointly owned by SoftBank Group and Naver Corporation. Renowned for its flagship product, the LINE app, it offers messaging, voice calls, and a suite of digital services, boasting hundreds of millions of users across Asia.
Sony Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is a global conglomerate with diversified operations in electronics, entertainment, and financial services. Recognized for innovations in consumer electronics, gaming (PlayStation), music, and film, Sony has established itself as a leader in multiple sectors.
The collaboration between LINE and Sony in the development of Sonieum represents a significant convergence of digital communication and entertainment technologies. While specific details of Sonieum remain under wraps, industry analysts anticipate that this partnership could lead to groundbreaking advancements in integrated digital services, potentially reshaping user experiences in the realms of communication, media consumption, and interactive entertainment.
Given the extensive user base of LINE and Sony's technological prowess, the Sonieum project holds the potential to create a substantial impact in the digital landscape, offering innovative solutions that blend connectivity and entertainment seamlessly.
