On September 4, 2024, Polygon Labs completed a major upgrade to its native token, transitioning from MATIC to POL. This move marks a crucial step in the network's evolution toward Polygon 2.0, aiming to create a more productive, scalable ecosystem. 

• Polygon's MATIC token was upgraded to POL on September 4, 2024. POL introduces new "hyperproductive" features, expanding utility beyond gas fees and staking.

• MATIC holders can upgrade to POL automatically or manually, with no current deadline.

• POL plays a key role in Polygon’s vision for Polygon 2.0 and the AggLayer. The upgrade brings a 2% annual token emission model.

On September 4, 2024, Polygon Labs officially replaced MATIC with POL, signaling the launch of Polygon 2.0. The upgraded POL token offers broader functionality and introduces what CEO Marc Boiron calls a "hyperproductive" token system. Unlike MATIC, which primarily earned fees from gas and staking, POL opens up new opportunities for fee generation, including securing data availability and decentralizing a sequencer.

Polygon’s upgrade follows a year of community discussions, with consensus focusing on increasing token utility and scalability. POL will now act as the native gas and staking token for the Polygon network, positioning itself as a crucial driver of Polygon’s growth.

Read more: Polygon Labs Announces Token Migration From MATIC to POL on September 4, 2024

All you need to know about MATIC to POL token migration | Source; Polygon on X 

According to Boiron, POL takes productivity one step further than Ethereum’s Ether, allowing for more diverse fee-earning options. POL holders can now generate fees from multiple sources, such as staking, securing additional chains, or decentralized sequencers. This means that POL will allow validators to participate in more network activities and earn from various roles within the Polygon ecosystem.

Beyond earning potential, POL will also play a vital role in Polygon’s AggLayer, an aggregation layer designed to connect different blockchains seamlessly. This makes POL a key player in Polygon 2.0’s vision of unifying various chains to create a scalable and interconnected ecosystem.

Polygon (POL)  has a New Emission Rate of  2% 

One of the significant tokenomics changes introduced with POL is a new emissions model. The token will have a 2% annual emission rate, divided between validators and a community treasury. For validators, this provides continuous rewards, incentivizing more participation in the network. The community treasury, on the other hand, will fund growth initiatives, including grants that promote the ecosystem's expansion.

This new emission model addresses one of the challenges faced by MATIC: its lack of flexibility. Boiron explained that MATIC’s upgrade keys were intentionally burned, limiting the token’s ability to introduce new features like emissions. POL resolves this issue, enabling greater control over the token’s use and future development.

If you’re a MATIC holder, here’s the good news: the upgrade to POL happens automatically for most users. If your MATIC is staked on the Polygon proof-of-stake (PoS) chain, no further action is required. Your MATIC will convert to POL seamlessly.

However, if you hold MATIC on Ethereum, the Polygon zkEVM, or centralized exchanges, you will need to migrate your tokens manually. Polygon has deployed a migration contract, allowing users to convert their MATIC to POL through the Polygon Portal Interface. Keep in mind, this process is more advanced, and it’s recommended only for users familiar with bridging tokens between networks.

Leading centralized exchanges (CEXs) have been actively facilitating the smooth migration from MATIC to POL for their users. KuCoin, in particular, has supported this transition since early 2023. As of November 9, 2023, POL is available for trading on KuCoin’s spot platform. Users can now deposit POL tokens and trade the POL/USDT pair. Additionally, KuCoin allows users to sell MATIC and purchase POL, providing early access to POL trading ahead of many other major exchanges.

For those holding MATIC as ERC-20 tokens in hardware wallets, a manual conversion will be necessary. While Polygon hasn’t yet provided specific instructions for hardware wallets like Ledger, expect updates soon on how to complete the migration.

No Deadline to Convert MATIC to POL (Yet)

While the migration went live on September 4, Polygon has not imposed a hard deadline for converting MATIC to POL. This means users can take their time making the switch. However, Polygon has indicated that the community could eventually establish a deadline, so it’s wise to stay updated on any potential changes in the future.

Benefits of AggLayer in Polygon 2.0 | Source: Polygon blog 

POL’s introduction is just the beginning of Polygon 2.0. Over time, POL will be integrated into the broader Polygon ecosystem, securing other chains within Polygon’s aggregated network, known as the AggLayer. The AggLayer aims to create a unified network of chains, ensuring fast, atomic cross-chain transactions while maintaining security.

Moreover, POL will be pivotal in block production, zero-knowledge proof generation, and Data Availability Committees (DACs). These roles reflect Polygon’s ambitious plans for zero-knowledge technology and the evolution of its ecosystem into a scalable, decentralized hub for Web3 applications.

The upgrade from MATIC to POL marks a significant milestone in Polygon’s roadmap. With enhanced utility and a new emission model, POL is designed to improve both the network's functionality and scalability. As Polygon 2.0 develops, POL is expected to play a central role in unifying multiple chains and driving the network's growth.

For users, this transition introduces new opportunities, from staking to participating in securing other chains within the ecosystem. Whether you are a validator seeking additional rewards or a developer building decentralized applications, POL offers expanded possibilities within the Polygon network.

However, as with any technological upgrade, it’s important to remain cautious. Changes in tokenomics and network structure can introduce new risks, such as potential technical issues during migration or shifts in market dynamics. Users are encouraged to stay informed and assess their participation carefully as Polygon moves forward with its plans.