The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with major platforms pushing the boundaries of scalability, security, and user accessibility. In a significant move that underscores the growing momentum behind zero-knowledge (ZK) technology and Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) innovation, OKX has officially launched the testnet for its new ZK-powered L2 network—X1—built using the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK). This development marks a pivotal step in expanding Web3 infrastructure and accelerating mass adoption through enhanced performance and reduced transaction costs.
Introducing X1: A New Era for Ethereum Scalability
X1 is designed as a zkEVM validium, a type of Layer 2 scaling solution that leverages zero-knowledge proofs to bundle transactions off-chain while ensuring their validity on Ethereum. Unlike traditional rollups, validiums store data off-chain (while still securing it through cryptographic proofs), offering higher throughput and lower fees—making them ideal for high-frequency applications like decentralized exchanges and gaming platforms.
By utilizing the Polygon CDK, OKX gains access to a modular, battle-tested framework for building customizable, interoperable, and secure L2 networks. The CDK enables rapid deployment of application-specific blockchains that are natively compatible with Ethereum, streamlining developer onboarding and ecosystem growth.
"X1 will be a key pillar of our efforts to educate and bring our users onchain and into the world of Web3," said Jason Lau, Chief Innovation Officer at OKX. "By collaborating with Polygon Labs, we look to bring more builders, more use cases, and ultimately the mass adoption of Web3."
This strategic collaboration positions X1 not just as a technical upgrade, but as a gateway for millions of existing OKX users to seamlessly transition into decentralized applications and on-chain activities.
👉 Discover how next-gen blockchain networks are transforming digital ownership and user experience.
OKB as the Native Gas Token
One of the most impactful aspects of the X1 network is its integration with OKB, the native utility token of OKX. Users will be able to pay gas fees on X1 using OKB, reinforcing its utility beyond exchange-based functions.
This move enhances OKB’s real-world application and strengthens the economic model of the OKX ecosystem. As more developers build on X1 and users interact with dApps, demand for OKB as a transactional asset is expected to grow—creating a self-sustaining cycle of usage and value accrual.
Moreover, this integration lowers barriers for existing OKX users who already hold OKB, enabling frictionless entry into Web3 without needing to acquire additional tokens for gas.
Strategic Collaboration with Polygon Labs and NEAR Protocol
OKX didn’t build X1 in isolation. Through its partnership with Polygon Labs, one of the leading forces in Ethereum scaling, OKX taps into years of ZK research and infrastructure development. Sandeep Nailwal, Co-Founder of Polygon, praised the launch:
"I’m super excited to see @okx launch an ETH L2 called X1 @X1_Network, using @0xPolygon CDK."
He emphasized that X1 provides developers with an affordable and user-friendly platform to create decentralized applications (dApps), further enriching the broader Ethereum ecosystem.
Additionally, OKX joins forces with NEAR Protocol, contributing to shared configurations and tooling via the Polygon CDK. This multi-stakeholder approach fosters open innovation and ensures that X1 benefits from diverse engineering expertise.
Notably, just days before X1’s announcement, Polygon and NEAR revealed plans to co-develop a zkWasm prover, enabling any WebAssembly-compatible chain to verify its state within Ethereum’s trust layer. This synergy amplifies the long-term potential of ZK technology across heterogeneous blockchain environments.
Core Keywords Driving the Future of Web3
To align with search intent and enhance discoverability, the following core keywords naturally emerge from this development:
- Ethereum Layer 2
- Zero-knowledge proof (ZK)
- Polygon CDK
- zkEVM validium
- OKB token
- Web3 adoption
- Blockchain scalability
- Decentralized applications (dApps)
These terms reflect both technical depth and user-centric value propositions, making them essential for SEO optimization while maintaining readability.
👉 Explore how zero-knowledge rollups are redefining blockchain efficiency and privacy.
FAQ: Your Questions About X1 Answered
What is X1 by OKX?
X1 is a zero-knowledge Ethereum Layer 2 network developed using the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK). It operates as a zkEVM validium, offering high-speed transactions with low fees while maintaining Ethereum-level security through cryptographic proofs.
How does X1 use OKB?
OKB serves as the native gas token on the X1 network. Users can pay transaction fees in OKB when interacting with dApps or executing smart contracts on X1, expanding the token’s utility beyond trading and staking.
Is X1 part of the Polygon ecosystem?
Yes. By being built with Polygon CDK, X1 integrates into the broader Polygon ecosystem, benefiting from shared tooling, interoperability standards, and network effects. It also contributes back by helping shape future CDK configurations alongside other protocol partners like NEAR.
What’s the difference between a zk-rollup and a validium?
Both use zero-knowledge proofs to validate transactions off-chain. However, zk-rollups store transaction data on Ethereum (ensuring full data availability), while validiums store data off-chain—offering higher throughput but relying on trusted data availability committees. X1 uses validium architecture for performance optimization.
Can developers build on X1 now?
The testnet is live, allowing developers to begin deploying and testing dApps. Mainnet launch details will be announced in due course. Tools and documentation are expected to be released to support developer onboarding.
Why does this matter for Web3 adoption?
X1 lowers entry barriers by combining low-cost transactions, familiar tooling via zkEVM compatibility, and seamless access for over 50 million OKX users. This creates a scalable bridge between centralized platforms and decentralized ecosystems.
The Road Ahead: Building Toward Mass Adoption
With X1, OKX is not merely launching another blockchain—it’s laying the foundation for broader Web3 engagement. By integrating proven ZK technology, leveraging Polygon’s robust development stack, and empowering users through OKB utility, X1 exemplifies how centralized platforms can responsibly contribute to decentralized innovation.
As Ethereum continues to face congestion and high gas fees during peak usage, scalable L2 solutions like X1 become increasingly critical. They enable everything from microtransactions in play-to-earn games to efficient DeFi trading—all without compromising security or decentralization.
The collaboration also signals a maturing industry where major players pool resources for collective advancement rather than competing in silos. With NEAR, Polygon, and now OKX working together on shared ZK infrastructure, the vision of an interconnected, scalable multi-chain future becomes more tangible.
In conclusion, X1 represents more than a technical milestone—it’s a strategic push toward making blockchain accessible to everyone. Whether you're a developer seeking powerful tools or a user exploring your first dApp, X1 offers a fast, affordable, and secure pathway into the next generation of the internet.