Ice Open Network launches mainnet, with big ambitions ahead

The Layer 1 blockchain wants to allow anyone to build their own dApps, irrespective of technical expertise, and can handle millions of transactions per second.

A blockchain that has already amassed more than 40 million users has launched its mainnet.

Ice Open Network, a Layer 1 blockchain focused on privacy, says the move comes after it attracted over 200 validators.

The network's debut is set to pave the way for a platform that will allow anyone to build their own social networks and decentralized applications through no-code, drag-and-drop tools.

It's hoped this could reduce barriers to entry for entrepreneurs with creative ideas for Web3 projects, as serverless dApps across desktop and mobile could be created irrespective of someone's technical expertise.

ION's developers say their primary concern is scalability — and tackling the capacity issues that have thwarted other blockchains. 

It's claimed this mainnet can already handle millions of transactions per second, with the option to expand further as adoption grows.

A longer-term ambition is to bring the internet's 5.5 billion consumers on-chain — all while providing a decentralized approach to content storage, user identities and digital interactions.

An integrated social media dApp known as Online+, which is currently in beta and scheduled for release in early spring, aims to serve as a hub for ION users that showcases what the blockchain is capable of.

Ice Open Network's founder and CEO, Alexandru Iulian Florea, said:

"We initially aimed for 100 validators at launch — to see that number double underscores the trust and enthusiasm surrounding ION. It's a resounding vote of confidence in our vision to redefine the internet through decentralization."

ION is a fork of The Open Network. The project says it has been built on principles that have "seemingly been abandoned" by TON, and claims this rival blockchain is now inherently centralized in nature.

In particular, this project has criticized a recent announcement that all mini-apps built on Telegram will need to exclusively use TON's infrastructure, limiting choice for developers.

"Where TON imposes restrictions, we offer freedom. Where TON centralizes decision-making, we empower the community. Where TON claims privacy but fails to deliver, we ensure that user data is protected by design," ION said in a recent blog post.