Sony just launched #Soneium , a layer-2 (L2) network on Ethereum aimed at optimizing transactions. However, this network immediately faced controversy when accused of banning transactions related to two new meme coins, Aibo and Toro. Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum, spoke out in defense of this network, providing deep insights on how businesses can manage control on the blockchain.
Soneium Causes Controversy for Restricting Meme Coin Transactions
Immediately after launch, many users complained on #discord of Soneium that they could not trade two meme coins Aibo and Toro. According to Blockscout, the smart contracts related to these two coins were marked as 'forbidden.'
The Soneium team later explained on X that this is a temporary measure to protect Sony's intellectual property. However, some technically savvy users found ways to circumvent the rules by trading directly on the Ethereum network, even having to wait 12 hours.
Vitalik Buterin: "This Is A Barrier, Not Censorship"
#VitalikButerin states that Soneium's design is not aimed at censoring users but merely creating 'a speed barrier.' He emphasized:
"Businesses can choose to maintain a certain level of control as long as they are transparent about those rules. It is important that users have the tools to understand the blockchain environment they are participating in."
Sony: Protecting Intellectual Property Is Our Responsibility
According to Sota Watanabe, Director of Sony Block Solutions Labs, Soneium does not 'oppose meme coins' but only promotes 'responsible' development.
"Some contracts directly violate Sony's intellectual property rights. We are compelled to act to protect the rights of creators."
The Soneium network currently uses a centralized sequencer, allowing the team to control transaction processing, including the ability to 'blacklist' projects through RPC nodes. However, this does not completely prohibit users from accessing the network but only applies to certain smart contracts.
Balancing Freedom and Control
Vitalik believes that the Ethereum ecosystem can contain both completely open networks and relatively controlled networks like Soneium. He emphasized:
"As long as open networks achieve a sufficiently large user base, they can coexist with closed systems."
Despite the controversy, Soneium shows how businesses like Sony can leverage blockchain technology while maintaining appropriate control.
Conclusion
Soneium is not just a technology experiment but also a lesson on how blockchain can balance creativity, control, and responsibility. This model could open new pathways for large enterprises entering the cryptocurrency space.
Risk warning: The cryptocurrency market is highly volatile. Investors should exercise caution and conduct thorough research before participating.