Sonic Labs unveils Sonic mainnet: The future of fast, EVM-compatible blockchains
A next-gen blockchain offering 10,000 TPS, instant finality, and unparalleled developer incentives
SkillUp/Shutterstock modified by Blockworks
Sonic Labs has officially launched its Sonic mainnet, a next-generation EVM-compatible layer-1 blockchain built to empower developers with robust features and compelling incentives.
With the capability to handle up to 10,000 transactions per second and near-instant finality, Sonic sets a new benchmark for performance. It also features a native decentralized bridge that seamlessly connects to Ethereum, making it a powerful platform for building innovative, high-impact applications.
Spearheaded by the team behind Fantom, Sonic is rooted in proven technology. The introduction of the S token propels Sonic far beyond Fantom and FTM, reshaping the landscape of DeFi. It’s engineered to provide developers with cutting-edge tools while offering users rapid access to abundant liquidity.
For FTM holders, the transition to Sonic couldn’t be easier—thanks to a simple 1:1 token upgrade to S.
Empowering Developers: Sonic’s Innovative Fee-Share Model
Sonic Labs is revolutionizing how blockchain developers are rewarded. Unlike traditional platforms that prioritize extracting value, Sonic takes a radically different approach: channeling a substantial portion of network fees back to the developers themselves. This strategy reflects a strong commitment to fostering an ecosystem rooted in innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability.
The Fee Monetization (FeeM) program is a game-changer. Developers can earn up to 90% of the fees generated by their applications—similar to revenue-sharing models seen in Web2 platforms like YouTube, but implemented within a decentralized environment. The model incentivizes app success, meaning developers earn more as their applications attract greater engagement and usage.
By blending proven digital monetization strategies with cutting-edge blockchain technology, Sonic empowers developers to build, scale, and profit from their applications efficiently and sustainably.
Introducing Sonic Gateway: The Decentralized Bridge
As blockchain ecosystems grow, the demand for secure and efficient cross-chain solutions is at an all-time high. Unfortunately, many existing bridges rely on centralized structures, making them prime targets for hacks and failures.
Sonic Gateway by Sonic Labs changes the game. This decentralized bridge seamlessly connects Ethereum and Sonic, offering a secure and user-friendly experience. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Uncompromising Security: Sonic Gateway prioritizes your asset safety. If the bridge becomes inactive for two weeks, a built-in fail-safe allows you to recover your funds directly on Ethereum. This permanent safety net ensures peace of mind and reliable protection.
- Blazing-Fast Transfers: Transfers occur in predictable intervals—every 10 minutes from Ethereum to Sonic, and hourly in reverse. Need faster access? Opt for the Fast Lane feature to bridge instantly by paying a minimal fee.
- Fully Decentralized Operation: Unlike centralized bridges, Sonic Gateway is managed by Sonic’s validator network across both chains. This removes single points of failure and ensures the bridge maintains the same level of decentralization as the Sonic network.
How to Bridge Your Assets:
- Visit the Sonic Gateway platform.
- Connect your Web3 wallet.
- Choose the asset you want to transfer.
- Review the expected amount on Sonic.
- Approve the transaction.
Sonic Labs has big plans to expand the reach of Sonic Gateway, adding support for more blockchains and enabling frictionless access to native assets across ecosystems. By maintaining decentralized custody, Sonic Gateway eliminates the vulnerabilities of centralized and third-party bridge solutions, ensuring your assets remain secure and accessible at all times.
Switching from FTM to S: Your Step-by-Step Guide
As Fantom transitions into Sonic, it’s time for FTM holders to upgrade to the new S token. To make this process hassle-free, Sonic Labs has introduced an easy-to-navigate upgrade portal on MySonic. Converting your FTM to S tokens is simple and maintains a 1:1 exchange rate.
Here’s how to upgrade:
- Head to the FTM-to-S upgrade portal.
- Connect your Web3-compatible wallet.
- Enter the amount of FTM you wish to convert.
- Confirm the amount of S tokens you’ll receive (it’s a direct 1:1 swap).
- Approve and submit the transaction.
The process is quick and seamless. Your new S tokens will show up in your wallet on Sonic within moments after completing the swap.
For the first 90 days after launch, the portal offers full flexibility, allowing you to swap back and forth between FTM and S. Once this period ends, the portal will only support FTM-to-S conversions.
Unlocking Growth: 190.5 Million S Airdrop
Sonic Labs is rolling out a major airdrop, distributing 190.5 million S tokens to developers and users to accelerate growth on the Sonic network. The initiative is divided into two reward systems: Sonic Points and Sonic Gems.
- Sonic Points are designed for users, rewarding activities like early adoption, asset holding, app usage, and overall engagement within the Sonic ecosystem. This encourages active participation and long-term loyalty.
- Sonic Gems focus on developers, incentivizing applications that drive user interaction and innovation. Developers can convert their earned Gems into S tokens, which can be used to reward their app users, boosting growth and sustained activity.
The distribution of Sonic Points and Gems will happen across multiple seasons, ensuring a steady and adaptable rewards program. The first season is scheduled to wrap up by June 2025.
With its groundbreaking technology, developer-first incentives, and seamless user experience, Sonic Labs is poised to redefine the blockchain landscape, empowering a new era of innovation, scalability, and decentralized success.
This content is sponsored and does not serve as an endorsement by Blockworks. The veracity of this content has not been verified and should not serve as financial advice. We encourage readers to conduct their own research before making financial decisions.
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