Token Roles: eMDR and MDR

What is eMDR and MDR and how do they work?

Why 2 Tokens?

In an effort to bootstrap our community, Modulr launched first on the Ethereum network as eMDR (Ethereum MDR).

However, Modulr is building its own custom layer one blockchain, with co-chains purpose built for various use cases, like robotics, AI, data services, decentralized compute, gaming, and more.

Until the Modulr mainnet launches in early 2026, the primary token will be eMDR. After mainnet launch, eMDR tokens can be converted 1:1 to MDR on Modulr's blockchain.

Think of it in the same way that Bittensor TAO has TAO on their core blockchain, but it's called wTAO when it's Ethereum-based wrapped TAO. Same thing with Modulr—we just started with the Ethereum wrapped token (eMDR) and our native token (MDR) will launch next.

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eMDR: Early Access & Benefits

eMDR is the ERC-20 token used for onboarding and early backer perks. It’s backed 1:1 by MDR on the native chain. For the ever-expanding list of eMDR holder benefits, be sure to read the next section: eMDR Holder Benefits.

eMDR is fixed in supply and acts as a bridge into Modulr for users, developers, and investors who want to participate without running hardware or validating tasks.

For full tokenomics info, please see Tokenomics.

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MDR: The Backbone of the Global Robot Economy

MDR powers every part of the Modulr ecosystem. It’s the currency for remote robotics usage, AI models & applications, data storage and access, decentralized compute, and anything that may be offered on Modulr's open marketplace.

It also fuels the economies of co-chains running on Modulr. It’s used for:

• Paying for compute, storage, and access jobs

• Validator rewards and node incentives

• Running co-chains and deploying new services

• Buying and selling digital assets inside co-chains

• Microtransactions, subscriptions, and in-app rewards

• Swapping with other tokens within Modulr-powered marketplaces

MDR is both the utility and the reward mechanism. Validators earn it for securing the network, and builders use it to power their applications without needing to rely on outside currencies.