OKX Releases Ethereum Layer 2 Testnet Network “X1” With Polygon CDK

Crypto exchange OKX and Polygon Labs have introduced the testnet for “X1,” a new Ethereum-based zero-knowledge (ZK) Layer 2 network. Developed using the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK), X1 will debut as a zkEVM validium.


In a press release through the OKX website, the exchange asserted that this new development opens doors for users and engineers to access the world’s largest blockchain ecosystems. OKX Chief Innovation Officer Jason Lau also emphasized X1’s role in onboarding users into the Web3 world, saying:

The X1 testnet is designed to enhance interoperability within the web3 ecosystem, offering a platform for developers to create consumer-centric applications. The initiative is part of OKX's broader effort to position itself as a developer-first platform, bridging its user base of over 50 million with Ethereum communities. By integrating transaction fees payable with their native OKB token, OKX is also contributing as a primary member to Polygon Labs' Chain Development Kit (CDK).

Star Xu, CEO of OKX, expressed his delight with the recent partnership through an X (formerly known as Twitter) post. He further noted that OKX will benefit from Polygon’s “amazing zkEVM technology.”

Polygon Co-Founder Sandeep Nailwal said in a statement that X1’s use of Polygon CDK technology marks a significant leap forward. He further underscored that the X1 network will provide developers with an “affordable and user-friendly platform to create decentralized apps.” 

Moreover, Nailwal wrote on his X account that the “integration of X1 into the Polygon Ecosystem significantly enhances the ecosystem’s network effects.”

Furthermore, Polygon Labs detailed in the X announcement that with the development of X1, OKX joins the decentralized application platform NEAR Protocol—alongside other protocol engineers. As a result, they contribute to the development of configurations and tools for chains via the Polygon CDK.
It’s worth mentioning that Polygon and NEAR Protocol announced their plans for a partnership in building a new zkWasm on November 8. This integration will allow any WebAssembly chain to prove itself in the Ethereum ecosystem while maximizing the security components of Layer 2.