On July 18th, Shape, a creator-focused layer-2 network built on Ethereum and part of the Optimism Superchain, unveiled its testnet, with plans for a full mainnet launch in Q3. Shape aims to provide an open environment where users can freely create a wide range of projects, from high art to experimental endeavors. A distinctive feature of Shape is its “Gasback” mechanism, which redistributes 80% of sequencer fees directly to smart contract owners, rewarding cultural impact within the network. As a member of the Optimism Superchain, Shape also contributes 15% of sequencer fees to the Optimism Collective, funding public goods initiatives.
In other blockchain news on July 18th:
- Chainlink introduced the Chainlink Digital Assets Sandbox (DAS) to foster digital asset innovation among financial institutions, offering ready-to-use business workflows.
- Bitrue Ventures launched a $40 million investment fund aimed at supporting nascent Web3 companies, with individual investments of up to $200,000 available, emphasizing sectors like AI, Real World Asset tokenization, GameFi, DePIN, and DeFi.
- InfStones rolled out its Node-as-a-Service (NaaS) product, aimed at simplifying blockchain node operations for emerging protocols, following its successful involvement in Aethir’s node sale.
These developments highlight ongoing advancements and investments in blockchain infrastructure and decentralized applications across various sectors.
