The rapidly evolving Web3 landscape has taken another leap forward with the launch of X1, a new Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) blockchain developed by OKX, one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchanges. Announced on November 14, the X1 testnet is now live, marking a significant milestone in OKX’s mission to drive mass adoption of decentralized applications and blockchain technology.
Built using Polygon’s Chain Development Kit (CDK), X1 leverages zero-knowledge proof (zk-proof) technology to deliver high scalability, enhanced security, and low transaction fees—key ingredients for a user-friendly and developer-accessible Web3 ecosystem.
What Is X1? A Scalable Ethereum L2 Built for Mass Adoption
X1 is designed to be OKX’s native Layer 2 network, built atop Ethereum to inherit its robust security while solving the scalability challenges that have historically limited Ethereum’s throughput. By utilizing zk-rollup technology, X1 bundles thousands of transactions off-chain and posts compressed proofs to the Ethereum mainnet, drastically reducing gas costs and confirmation times.
The choice of Polygon CDK as the foundational development framework allows X1 to benefit from modular, customizable architecture, enabling rapid deployment and seamless integration with other CDK-based chains. This positions X1 not only as a standalone network but as a potential hub within a broader interoperable blockchain ecosystem.
👉 Discover how next-gen blockchain networks are reshaping Web3 development.
Native Token Integration: OKB Powers the X1 Economy
One of the most strategic aspects of X1 is its use of OKB, OKX’s native utility token, as the gas token for the network. This integration strengthens OKB’s utility beyond exchange-based functions, embedding it directly into on-chain activity such as transaction fees, smart contract execution, and dApp interactions.
This move aligns with a growing trend among major crypto platforms to unify their ecosystems under a single token economy, enhancing value accrual and user engagement. Developers building on X1 will benefit from predictable fee structures and deep integration with OKX’s existing infrastructure, including wallets, trading platforms, and developer tools.
Roadmap: From Testnet to Mainnet in Early 2025
According to the official roadmap published on the X1 website, the network is on track to transition from testnet to mainnet in Q1 2025. This phase will mark the beginning of full-scale decentralized application (dApp) deployment, opening the door for developers to build scalable, high-performance applications across DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and social platforms.
The testnet phase is currently open for developers and early adopters to experiment with smart contracts, test transaction throughput, and explore wallet integrations. OKX has committed to providing extensive documentation, developer grants, and technical support to accelerate ecosystem growth.
Strategic Partnership with Polygon Labs
The collaboration between OKX and Polygon Labs underscores a shared vision for a modular, interoperable Web3 future. Polygon CDK has emerged as a leading framework for building customized zk-powered L2s, with projects like zkWASM and Astar zkEVM also adopting the toolkit.
By aligning with Polygon’s proven infrastructure, OKX gains access to battle-tested scalability solutions and a growing network of compatible chains. This partnership also opens the door for future cross-chain bridges, shared liquidity pools, and unified developer tooling across CDK-based networks.
Jason Lau, Chief Innovation Officer at OKX, emphasized the strategic importance of X1:
“X1 is a cornerstone of our mission to educate users and onboard them into the on-chain and Web3 world. This scalable and accessible network is ideal for developers looking to build and serve users on a robust foundation.”
He added:
“We aim to deliver world-class, consumer-friendly Web3 applications while maintaining interoperability with other networks. Through our collaboration with Polygon Labs, we’re bringing more builders and use cases into the ecosystem—ultimately driving mass adoption of Web3.”
👉 Explore how modular blockchains are powering the future of decentralized apps.
Why X1 Matters for Developers and Users
For developers, X1 offers a compelling environment:
- Low-cost, high-speed transactions powered by zk-rollups
- Full EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) compatibility
- Native integration with OKX’s wallet and developer tools
- Access to funding and support through OKX’s builder programs
For end users, X1 promises:
- Seamless onboarding into Web3 with reduced friction
- Lower gas fees compared to Ethereum mainnet
- Access to innovative dApps built on a secure, scalable foundation
- Enhanced user experience through account abstraction (already supported in OKX Wallet)
Core Keywords Driving Visibility and Engagement
To align with search intent and improve discoverability, the following core keywords have been naturally integrated throughout this article:
- OKX X1 blockchain
- Polygon CDK L2
- Ethereum Layer 2 network
- zk-rollup blockchain
- OKB utility token
- Web3 mass adoption
- X1 testnet 2025
- decentralized application development
These terms reflect high-volume search queries related to blockchain innovation, developer tools, and cryptocurrency ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the X1 blockchain?
A: X1 is a new Ethereum Layer 2 network developed by OKX using Polygon’s CDK. It uses zk-rollup technology to offer fast, low-cost transactions and is designed to support scalable dApp development.
Q: When will X1 launch its mainnet?
A: The mainnet is expected to go live in Q1 2025, following the current testnet phase.
Q: Which token is used on X1?
A: OKB, OKX’s native token, serves as the gas token for the X1 network, powering transactions and smart contract interactions.
Q: Is X1 compatible with Ethereum?
A: Yes, X1 is EVM-compatible, meaning developers can deploy Ethereum-based dApps with minimal changes.
Q: How does Polygon CDK benefit X1?
A: Polygon CDK provides modular infrastructure for building zk-powered L2s, enabling faster deployment, scalability, and future interoperability with other CDK-based chains.
Q: Can developers start building on X1 now?
A: Yes, developers can access the testnet, explore documentation, and begin building dApps ahead of the mainnet launch.
👉 Start building on a scalable L2 platform designed for the future of Web3.
Final Thoughts: A Strategic Move Toward Web3 Accessibility
OKX’s launch of X1 represents more than just a technical upgrade—it’s a strategic push toward making Web3 truly accessible to millions. By combining the power of zk-rollups, Polygon’s proven CDK framework, and the utility of OKB, X1 is positioned to become a major player in the next wave of blockchain innovation.
As the testnet gains traction and developers begin deploying early applications, the focus will shift toward ecosystem growth, user adoption, and real-world use cases. With mainnet launch on the horizon in early 2025, now is the time for builders and innovators to get involved.
The future of decentralized applications is not just about technology—it’s about accessibility, scalability, and seamless user experience. X1 aims to deliver all three.