Sony Invests $13 Million in Startale to Advance Ethereum-Based Blockchain
Sony Innovation Fund is making waves in the blockchain space with a strategic $13 million investment in Startale Group, co-developers of the highly efficient Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain platform, Soneium. This funding is the first tranche of Startale’s Series A round, bringing their total disclosed funding to $20 million. The partnership aims to reshape entertainment and content creation through cutting-edge blockchain and AI integration.
Key Achievements of the Soneium Blockchain
Since its launch in January 2025, Soneium has charted significant milestones, processing over 500 million transactions and fostering 5.4 million active wallets. With more than 250 decentralized applications (dApps) built on the platform, Soneium has firmly established itself as a prominent player in the Ethereum Layer 2 ecosystem.
The platform’s keystone is the Startale App, which acts as a gateway. It allows users to manage assets, utilize its integrated wallet, and access decentralized applications seamlessly. Furthermore, Startale USD (USDSC) plays a critical role as a universal settlement layer, ensuring smooth network-wide payment integration.
Deepening the Sony-Startale Collaboration
The partnership between Sony Innovation Fund and Startale underscores a shared long-term vision to develop blockchain infrastructure tailored for on-chain entertainment. This relationship is pivotal in advancing Startale’s mission to create creator-centered technology for participatory fan experiences amidst the growing influence of AI in entertainment.
Kazuhito Hadano, CEO of Sony Ventures Corporation, highlighted Startale’s comprehensive approach, stating, “Startale’s innovative work in blockchain infrastructure and applications reflects a forward-looking understanding of global value flows. Sony is excited to continue supporting their ambition.”
How Blockchain and AI Are Transforming Entertainment
Generative AI is already revolutionizing content creation, and when combined with blockchain’s decentralized benefits, offers creators new monetization models while enabling intellectual-property-driven platforms. Through this collaboration, Sony and Startale are working to bridge traditional media and decentralized technologies, paving the way for a more interactive entertainment experience.
“Our vision is to bring the world on-chain, enabling creators and fans to connect like never before,” said Sota Watanabe, CEO of Startale Group. “With Sony’s unmatched expertise in entertainment and technology, we are building powerful global infrastructure to make this vision a reality.”
Explore the Future: Tools for Blockchain and Entertainment
If you’re curious about diving into the world of blockchain entertainment or exploring decentralized app possibilities, consider tools like MetaMask for managing digital assets seamlessly. As the entertainment industry evolves, personal blockchain wallets like MetaMask become essential for both creators and fans engaging with platforms like Soneium.
