Sony launches incubator for consumer, gaming apps on blockchain

Sony Block Solutions Labs (SBSL) has launched “Soneium For All,” an incubator program to support the development of consumer and gaming applications on its Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain, Soneium.

This initiative is in collaboration with Astar Network and Startale Cloud Services and targets Web3 developers.

It aims to address challenges like scalability, user acquisition, and market visibility.

Participants will gain access to Soneium’s blockchain infrastructure, which includes over 7 million users, US$215 million in total value locked, and more than 1.5 million daily transactions.

Accepted projects can apply for grants, including a US$60,000 pool for those using Astar Network’s ASTR token, along with mentorship and potential investment support from the Sony Innovation Fund.

Applications opened on June 9, 2025, with winners expected in late July.

🔗 Source: Soneium

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Sony’s blockchain incubator enters a rapidly expanding gaming market

The “Soneium For All” incubator launches amid explosive growth in blockchain gaming, tapping into a market projected to expand from $128.62 billion in 2022 to $614.91 billion by 2030, representing a 21.8% CAGR1.

This initiative coincides with broader gaming industry shifts, including the projected $160 billion mobile gaming market by 2025 and the growing popularity of play-to-earn models that provide monetary incentives for players2.

With 7 million users already on Soneium, Sony is positioning itself at the intersection of entertainment and blockchain during a critical growth phase when players increasingly seek ownership of digital assets through NFTs.

The timing is strategic as major brands and studios increase investments in blockchain gaming, with players seeking decentralized ownership models that offer tangible value from gaming experiences1.

By focusing on both consumer applications and gaming, Sony is addressing multiple segments of the evolving Web3 ecosystem simultaneously, potentially accelerating adoption across its entertainment properties.

2️⃣ Entertainment giants leverage blockchain to retain market control

Sony’s blockchain initiative represents a pattern seen across the entertainment industry, where established media conglomerates are embracing decentralized technology while maintaining their dominant market positions.