BNB Chain is developing a second Layer 1 network to run alongside BNB Smart Chain, according to updated documentation. The new chain is intended for trading and payments, with target block times of about 200 milliseconds; those speeds are specifications, not reported results. BNB Chain says an internal multi-validator devnet is operating, but the public testnet is planned for the end of 2026 and mainnet for early 2027.
The chains are intended to connect through a native bridge and use BNB for gas, staking and governance, without a separate token. BNB Smart Chain is expected to keep supporting its existing DeFi and application ecosystem. Any effect on demand for BNB remains uncertain.
