Polygon (MATIC) has recently streamlined its focus towards aggregated blockchains, aligning with its 2.0 roadmap, which envisions evolving into a network of zero-knowledge Ethereum Layer 2 chains. Central to this new narrative is the AggLayer, designed to seamlessly connect Layer 2 chains within the Polygon network, offering users an experience akin to interacting with a single chain.
On February 23, the AggLayer was launched, heralding the commencement of operations for the first chain to adopt the interoperability protocol. Astar Network, a prominent Layer 1 EVM chain, unveiled Astar zkEVM, an Ethereum Layer 2 chain powered by the Polygon CDK. It becomes the inaugural blockchain to integrate with the newly released AggLayer.
With the integration of AggLayer, Astar zkEVM users gain the ability to execute cross-chain transactions with Polygon zkEVM and other chains poised to leverage the protocol. The team behind Astar emphasises the opportunity to tap into the substantial $55 billion liquidity across the Polygon and Ethereum ecosystem.
Despite being in its initial phase, users can already perceive the network as a unified blockchain, according to Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal. He views Astar’s launch as a significant stride towards Polygon’s broader objective of establishing a multi-chain ecosystem.
Along with the mainnet rollout, Astar has initiated a promotional campaign named Yoki Origins. This campaign aims to immerse users in a journey to explore unique characters inspired by supernatural creatures from Japan while engaging with talented artists, innovators, and developers.
Astar reports a growing interest from various institutions and projects planning to launch on the new Layer 2. Notable among these are Deloitte, working on an NFT game for the Japanese Government Sports Agency; Hakuhodo and Japanese Airlines collaborating on a tokenization project called KOKYO NFT; and PACKS, a platform for tokenizing Pokemon trading cards.
Meanwhile, Polygon Labs has repositioned its focus entirely on building a network of aggregated chains, foreseeing it as the foundation of a new blockchain-based internet. In February 2024, the company implemented a strategic shift, reducing its workforce by 19% and outlining plans to spin out specific units, such as its venture capital arm, as independent entities.