Apecoin officially announced the launch of ApeChain, a Layer 3 blockchain. In addition to launching the mainnet, the protocol introduced the ApeChain bridge and Swap portal, designed to streamline cross-chain transactions for a seamless user experience.

Yuga Labs, the team behind the popular Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC), partnered with Wire Network, a universal Layer 1 blockchain infrastructure built for the AI agent economy. This collaboration aims to expand the capabilities of creators on Apechain, allowing them to use AI-driven tools to engage their audiences in more meaningful and profitable ways.

ApeCoin DAO’s Transition to Layer 2

The idea of a dedicated blockchain has long been discussed within the ApeCoin DAO. Initially, there was consideration for creating an independent blockchain. However, after community discussions, it became clear that the Layer 3 approach connected to Ethereum was more feasible.

ApeChain was developed using Arbitrum Orbit, a toolkit that reportedly enhances both security and scalability. 

With the launch, ApeChain introduced a feature called "Automatic Yield Mode" for ApeCoin holders. With this mode, users automatically earn rewards with each block, without the need for manual staking or claiming. 

LayerZero Integration for Seamless Cross-Chain Transfers

LayerZero has also announced its launch on ApeChain, adding another layer of functionality to the platform. This integration allows for seamless cross-chain transfers, utilizing LayerZero’s OFT standard. 

With this capability, ApeChain enhances its ability to interact with other blockchains, ensuring scalability and efficiency in transactions.

Yuga Labs Unveils Top Trader

As part of the ApeChain launch, Yuga Labs introduced its first native product, Top Trader, an on-chain trading simulation game. The game allows users to trade with leverages of up to 1,000 times, all without actual financial risk. 

Additional features include the Ape Portal for cross-chain payments and Yuga ID, which simplifies account management. 

The price of $APE, the native token of ApeCoin DAO, has soared 100% in the last two days following the launch of Apechain, per CoinMarketCap.