In early July 2023, Astar, a well-known smart contract platform on Polkadot, unveiled its "Astar 2.0 Vision" to propel the widespread adoption of Web3 technology. The platform's goal is to empower users in managing online and offline data, privacy, and local communities.

To bolster the ecosystem and attract more participants, Astar 2.0 has revamped developer tools and token economics, with a focus on its native token, ASTR. This includes reducing the inflation rate, implementing additional fee burning mechanisms, and increasing base rewards for stakers and dApps.

Astar functions as a central hub for chains supporting EVM and WASM smart contracts, fostering interoperability through its Cross Virtual Machine (XVM). With the introduction of its Layer 2 network, Astar zkEVM, the platform aims to bridge the Ethereum and Polkadot ecosystems, further solidifying its position in the multichain landscape.

Astar streamlines the deployment of services on the blockchain for dApp development by implementing security and scalability improvements on its Layer 2 platform. Leveraging Polygon's expertise in zero-knowledge technology, Astar zkEVM was constructed using the provided CDK, with a unique connection to Polygon's Aggregation Layer (AggLayer).

This combined approach offers the advantages of both monolithic and modular blockchains, simplifying chain transactions and addressing challenges associated with current blockchain solutions.

The expansion of Astar Network into Japan was officially announced on April 14, following collaborative partnerships with multiple Web 3 enterprises and major corporations such as Sony, Toyota, and UOB Venture Management. Astar has also formed a partnership with the Japanese city of Shibuya, and its founder, Sota Watanabe, is working closely with the Japanese government to promote Web3 adoption.

Focusing on partnerships and innovation is a key priority for Sota, who also serves as a director of the Japan Blockchain Association. Astar zkEVM is currently in development for Japanese Real World Assets NFTs in collaboration with Japan Airlines, Hakuhodo, and other companies like Kokyo. Yasushi Akimoto, known for his work with idol groups such as AKB48 and Nogizaka46, is preparing to launch YAOKE Entertainment, powered by an idol economy based on Astar zkEVM tokens.

The community is eagerly anticipating Astar's commitment to innovation and zero-knowledge technology, which is seen as essential for Ethereum's future scalability. The integration of Astar zkEVM with Polygon's AggLayer has sparked significant interest among investors and developers. With the government and traditional corporations embracing Web3 adoption, Astar is poised to introduce millions of Japanese citizens to Web3 technology.