The blockchain and digital asset landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with major network upgrades, high-profile NFT launches, and significant DeFi developments scheduled throughout May 2025. From cross-chain innovations to celebrity-driven NFT projects, this month promises to be a pivotal period for Web3 enthusiasts, developers, and investors alike.
Whether you're tracking mainnet launches, participating in token sales, or exploring new creative ventures in the metaverse, staying informed about these key events is essential. Below is a detailed overview of what’s coming up — organized by date and significance — to help you navigate the most anticipated milestones in the crypto space.
📅 Key Dates and Highlights
May 9: NFT Mints, Retail Innovation, and IDO Launches
Meta Opens First Physical Store – Meta Store
On May 9, Meta will officially open its first brick-and-mortar retail location, Meta Store, in Burlingame, California. This marks a significant step in bringing immersive technology into everyday consumer experiences. Visitors can test products like the Portal video calling device, Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses, and the Quest 2 VR headset.
This physical presence underscores Meta’s long-term vision for the metaverse — blending digital interaction with real-world engagement. For users curious about how virtual reality and AI-powered wearables function in daily life, this store offers hands-on access.
👉 Discover how Web3 technologies are shaping the future of retail and immersive experiences.
Hyundai Launches “Shooting Star” NFT Collection
South Korea’s automotive giant Hyundai is stepping further into the digital realm with the launch of its “Shooting Star” NFT collection on May 9. The collection features 10,000 unique NFTs minted on the Ethereum blockchain over a two-day window (May 9–10). These NFTs are part of Hyundai’s broader Metamobility initiative, which explores mobility solutions within virtual worlds.
As one of the first major automakers to embrace NFTs as both art and brand extension, Hyundai is setting a precedent for real-world industries leveraging blockchain for innovation and community building.
YGG SEA IDO on Copper Platform
Yield Guild Games (YGG) expands its regional focus with YGG SEA’s IDO launching on Copper at 23:00 Beijing Time on May 9. With a starting bid price of $0.50, the auction will run until May 14. This event highlights the growing importance of localized gaming ecosystems within the play-to-earn model.
As blockchain gaming continues to gain traction across Southeast Asia, YGG SEA aims to support local players and developers through funding, education, and infrastructure.
May 10: Major Network Upgrades and High-Profile NFT Debut
Kava 10 Mainnet Launch with Ethereum Co-Chain
The Kava 10 mainnet goes live on May 10, introducing a groundbreaking Ethereum co-chain alongside its existing Cosmos-based chain. This dual-chain architecture allows seamless interoperability between Ethereum and Cosmos ecosystems, enabling developers to build scalable dApps that leverage both networks.
Previously launched as a beta testnet in April, the Ethereum co-chain enhances Kava’s position as a cross-chain DeFi hub. Developers can now deploy Solidity-based smart contracts while benefiting from low fees and high throughput.
Nervos CKB Upgrades to Mirana Mainnet
Nervos Network will execute its first major upgrade since 2019 with the Mirana mainnet launch on May 10 at 09:00 Beijing Time. Formerly known as CKB Lina, this Layer 1 upgrade introduces critical improvements:
- A crypto-friendly instruction set
- Virtual machine version control
- Expandable block headers
- New cryptographic standards
These upgrades significantly boost network efficiency, security, and smart contract composability. Notably, CKB holders do not need to take any action during the transition. However, exchanges and wallets may temporarily suspend deposits and withdrawals.
Chris Brown Launches First NFT Series: The Auracles
Grammy-winning artist Chris Brown enters the NFT space with The Auracles, a project designed to empower Black creators in Web3. Launched on May 10 in collaboration with Los Angeles-based brand Renowned, The Auracles features a superhero narrative centered on a Black protagonist traversing time and influencing global culture.
The release includes both digital collectibles and a physical streetwear line, merging fashion, music, and blockchain — a trend increasingly adopted by artists seeking deeper fan engagement.
DFINITY Hosts Supernova Global Hackathon
Internet Computer (ICP) kicks off its first global hackathon — Supernova — on May 10. Running until June 20, the event invites developers worldwide to build innovative Web3 applications with a chance to win up to $6 million in prizes.
With a focus on decentralized cloud computing and serverless dApp development, Supernova aims to accelerate adoption of the Internet Computer protocol. Registration is already open, offering teams time to prepare before the official start date.
👉 Explore tools and platforms that empower developers to build next-gen decentralized applications.
May 11: Gaming Meets Luxury and BSC Testnet Upgrade
McLaren Drops Genesis Collection NFTs
Luxury automaker McLaren launches its debut NFT collection — Genesis Collection — on May 11 via the Ethereum blockchain. Limited to 2,012 NFTs, the collection celebrates the iconic P1™ and P1™ GTR supercars across five tiers and eight distinct traits.
Priced at 0.5 ETH each, these NFTs grant holders access to MSO LAB, McLaren’s exclusive metaverse studio community. Notably, minting requires an invitation, emphasizing exclusivity and brand prestige.
This move reflects how high-end brands are using NFTs not just for fundraising but as membership keys to immersive digital experiences.
BNB Smart Chain Chapel Testnet Hard Fork (Euler)
The BNB Smart Chain Chapel testnet undergoes a hard fork named Euler at approximately 03:18 UTC on May 11 (11:18 Beijing Time). Validators and full node operators must upgrade to v1.1.10 before the event.
Key upgrades include:
- BEP-127: Validator temporary maintenance mode
- BEP-131: Introduction of candidate validators
These changes aim to improve network stability, validator participation, and overall resilience ahead of potential mainnet implementation.
May 12: Creative Expansion in the NFT Space
Doodles Announces “Mystery Gear” Reveal
Popular NFT project Doodles has appointed Julian Holguin, former Billboard executive, as its new CEO. With experience from BBC, NBC, and New York Daily News, Holguin brings deep expertise in music and entertainment branding.
On May 12, Doodles will unveil “mystery gear,” hinting at new merchandise or wearable tech integrations. Combined with upcoming roadmap updates, this signals an aggressive push into music, gaming, and cultural experiences built around the Doodles IP.
ZMAX NFT Public Sale Begins
TRX Labs’ zombie-themed Zombie Max (ZMAX) NFT collection enters public sale on May 12 after a successful presale. Featuring 3D voxel art, the limited collection consists of 3,000 NFTs priced at 0.11 ETH each.
As part of the growing trend of gamified collectibles, ZMAX aims to blend horror aesthetics with utility in future metaverse environments.
May 13: Token Sales and New Chain Onboarding
CoinList Hosts Ondo Finance (ONDO) Token Sale
On May 13 at 01:00 Beijing Time, CoinList will conduct the public sale of Ondo Finance (ONDO) tokens. With a total supply of 400 million, each token is priced at $0.055, subject to a 12-month lock-up followed by a 6-month linear release.
Ondo Finance is an Ethereum-based DeFi protocol enabling users to earn yield through crypto-collateralized lending. It has secured over $100 million in liquidity commitments from major stablecoin issuers including FEI, FRAX, UST, and RAI.
This sale represents one of the most anticipated institutional-grade DeFi launches of the year.
Aptos Begins User Registration for Testnet
The high-performance Layer 1 blockchain Aptos starts user registration on May 13. Participants must provide a verified GitHub account to qualify. The incentive testnet launches on May 16 with an initial cap of 100 validator nodes.
Aptos’ phased roadmap includes:
- May: Testnet launch
- June: Test coin staking
- July: On-chain governance
- August: Dynamic validator topology
These steps lay the foundation for a secure and decentralized mainnet launch later in the year.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to take action if I hold CKB before the Mirana upgrade?
A: No. The Mirana upgrade is automatic for all CKB holders. You do not need to swap or update your tokens manually.
Q: How can I participate in the Ondo Finance token sale on CoinList?
A: You must register before the deadline (which has passed), verify your identity, and meet eligibility requirements based on your jurisdiction.
Q: Can anyone join the DFINITY Supernova hackathon?
A: Yes, developers globally can register for free and submit projects until June 20. Prizes total $6 million across multiple categories.
Q: Is the McLaren NFT available for public mint?
A: No. The Genesis Collection requires an invitation to mint, making it an exclusive drop for selected community members.
Q: What is special about Kava’s Ethereum co-chain?
A: It enables Ethereum-compatible smart contracts within the Cosmos ecosystem, offering cross-chain functionality without sacrificing speed or cost-efficiency.
Q: Are Hyundai’s Shooting Star NFTs linked to real-world benefits?
A: While primarily artistic collectibles tied to Metamobility, specific utilities may be revealed post-launch as part of Hyundai’s long-term metaverse strategy.