Latest DePIN News

In a significant move for the decentralized finance (DeFi) and artificial intelligence (AI) sectors, io.net and Injective have announced a partnership aimed at enhancing decentralized computing capabilities on the Injective network. This collaboration, revealed in a blog post on January 14, 2025, will see io.net expand its decentralized GPU compute network to support DeFAI developers on the Injective platform. The integration is now live, marking a pivotal step in the evolution of decentralized physical infrastructure networks, which currently represent a market valued at approximately $32 billion. io.net stands out as a leading project in the decentralized infrastructure space, boasting a market capitalization of $393 million as of January 14, 2025. Other notable players in this sector include Render, Filecoin, Theta Network, and The Graph. Meanwhile, the AI Agents and AI market caps are reported at $13 billion and $44 billion, respectively. Injective itself, incubated by Binance and supported by prominent venture capital firms such as Jump Crypto and Pantera Capital, has a market cap of $2.03 billion, positioning it as a key player in the blockchain landscape for DeFi, real-world assets, and AI. The partnership between io.net and Injective is set to empower developers by providing access to advanced tools through Injective’s iAgent framework and io.net’s decentralized GPU network. This initiative follows a previous collaboration between Injective and Aethir in December 2024, which introduced tokenized GPU compute resource allocation. By converting GPU resources into tradeable tokens on the Injective platform, developers, researchers, and businesses can now access computational resources more flexibly and cost-effectively, thereby fostering innovation within the AI ecosystem and the broader web3 space.

Solana has recently unveiled Roam, a decentralized WiFi network that aims to revolutionize global connectivity. The project, as announced on Solana's social media, intends to integrate over 1 million WiFi hotspots into a secure global network. Users will be rewarded for their contributions, creating an incentive-driven ecosystem. This initiative reflects Solana's commitment to enhancing connectivity through innovative solutions in the Decentralized Wireless (DeWi) space, utilizing Open Roaming protocols to ensure secure and reliable access to the internet. Roam is designed to provide seamless connectivity while allowing users to earn rewards through daily check-ins and staking Roam Tokens (ROAM). Key features of the platform include Roam Miner, which enhances user rewards and offers crypto mining capabilities, and a daily check-in system that allows users to accumulate Roam Points. These points can be staked to earn $ROAM tokens, creating a self-sustaining network focused on security and efficiency. This launch adds to Solana's portfolio of innovations, including the recent introduction of the Seeker Phone, aimed at Web3 users. Despite the ambitious nature of Roam, the market response has been cautious, with Solana's native token, SOL, experiencing only a modest price increase following the announcement. Critics argue that some of Solana's innovations may be ahead of their time, facing challenges in market readiness and development costs. As Solana continues to innovate with projects like Roam, its ability to balance cutting-edge technology with practical applications will be essential for long-term success in the blockchain space.

As the political landscape shifts with the upcoming Trump inauguration, global markets, including the cryptocurrency sector, brace for potential volatility. In this dynamic environment, investors are keenly observing high-potential blockchain projects that are likely to thrive. Among the frontrunners are The AI Organization (TAO), Arweave (AR), and Script Network (SCPT), each offering unique solutions that cater to emerging demands in the market. The AI Organization, or TAO, is leading the charge in integrating artificial intelligence with blockchain technology. Its decentralized AI network is pioneering advancements in automation and predictive analytics, making it an attractive investment. As both public and private sectors increasingly adopt AI-driven solutions, TAO's innovative approach positions it as a key player in the evolving landscape of technology and finance. On the other hand, Arweave is revolutionizing data storage with its permaweb technology, which guarantees data permanence. This capability is becoming increasingly essential as the demand for immutable storage solutions rises, particularly in sectors like NFTs and enterprise data management. Lastly, Script Network ($SCPT) is redefining user engagement in digital content through its watch-to-earn model, which incentivizes viewers to consume media. With significant upgrades planned and a broad reach across devices, SCPT is set to lead the charge in decentralized entertainment. Collectively, these projects are well-positioned to capitalize on the next wave of blockchain adoption, making them worthy of investor attention.

Koii Network ($KOII) has officially launched its trading on major exchanges Gate.io and MEXC after a successful mainnet launch and multiple oversubscribed token sales. With over 100,000 active nodes, Koii Network is positioned as a significant player in decentralized infrastructure, boasting an impressive capacity to process 185.1 terabytes of data daily. This launch not only marks a pivotal moment for the network but also emphasizes its commitment to democratizing access to computing infrastructure, as highlighted by founder Al Morris. The network aims to empower users by transforming their computers into part of the world's largest supercomputer. To celebrate its exchange debut, Koii Network is hosting a special giveaway in collaboration with Gate.io, where participants can share a pool of $50,000 worth of $KOII tokens. This initiative is designed to encourage user engagement and promote the accessibility of their computing infrastructure. Koii's infrastructure-first approach has garnered strong market validation, as evidenced by the success of its previous token sales through leading launchpads like PAID Network and Spores. Morris notes that Koii represents the next evolution in the decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) sector, moving beyond single utilities to provide comprehensive computing solutions. Looking ahead, Koii Network plans to enhance its capabilities by activating cross-chain functionality through a partnership with Allbridge, facilitating seamless token transfers across various blockchains. Additionally, the network will introduce KOII token staking, allowing holders to actively participate in securing and expanding this community-driven computing infrastructure. With trading officially commencing on January 13th, 2024, Koii Network is set to redefine the landscape of decentralized computing and AI-ready infrastructure, making advanced technology accessible to a broader audience.

The landscape of Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure is evolving, with a strong emphasis on three key pillars: computing power, algorithms, and data. Initially, the focus was on enhancing computing power, leading companies to invest heavily in GPUs and data centers. Notably, Web3 mining firms like Coreweave transitioned to AI data centers, while distributed computing platforms such as IO and Aether gained traction. As advancements reduced computing bottlenecks, the spotlight shifted towards edge capabilities and the role of blockchain in incentivizing user participation through token mechanisms, marking a significant evolution in AI infrastructure. As the AI industry progresses, the emphasis has now turned toward algorithms and models, with innovations like DeepSeek V3 prompting critical discussions about cost reduction in AI-Generated Content (AIGC) production and the feasibility of privacy-preserving distributed computing frameworks. Despite the limited current applications of crypto projects in this area, the potential for growth remains substantial. However, the data layer presents a significant challenge, as the availability of high-quality, well-structured data for effective model training is in question. Projects like Grass, aimed at rescraping internet data, highlight the need for clean training data and breaking down data silos to facilitate sharing while maintaining privacy. Roam, a pioneering Web3 project, is addressing these challenges by creating a global open wireless network that transforms private data into AI-ready datasets. Supported by industry alliances, Roam's innovative Global WiFi OpenRoaming™ + eSIM Top-Up product incentivizes user participation and ensures seamless connectivity. By breaking down barriers to private data access, Roam enhances data sharing while prioritizing security and privacy. This initiative not only empowers AI agents to operate across various devices but also lays the groundwork for a new era of AI integration with the Internet of Things (IoT), signaling a transformative shift towards a silicon-based civilization where AI and humanity coexist harmoniously.

Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN): Navigating Regulatory Challenges As we approach the latter half of 2025, the political landscape indicates a more favorable attitude towards cryptocurrencies, with assurances of regulatory clarity from major parties in the United States. Amidst this shift, the spotlight falls on decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) as a sector requiring special attention. DePIN projects, valued at $38.4 billion, uniquely blend blockchain incentives with real-world infrastructure, allowing users to monetize their electronic devices. While some in the crypto space resist regulation, DePIN's hybrid model necessitates a robust framework to ensure trust and unleash its transformative potential. The distinctive features of DePINs lie in their creation of a self-sustaining economy where participants are directly rewarded for their contributions to the network. This model is particularly well-suited for industries reliant on digital innovation and physical presence, such as geolocation services, decentralized storage, and Internet-of-Things connectivity. However, the hybrid nature of DePINs poses challenges by challenging existing regulatory paradigms and demanding new guidelines to govern their operations. DePIN projects have already demonstrated their economic viability, with examples like Geodnet generating significant annual recurring revenue. Yet, the sector's success underscores the critical need for clear oversight. Issues around data access, fair compensation for user contributions, governance transparency, and revenue distribution remain unresolved. Without regulatory clarity, the potential of DePIN networks may be hindered, leading to concerns about data privacy, fair compensation, and governance opacity. A tailored regulatory framework is crucial to address these challenges and incentivize transparency in the DePIN ecosystem.

Starpower, a startup that develops decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePINs), has raised $2.5 million in new financing, bringing its total funding to $4 million. Framework Ventures led the round. Solana Ventures and Bitscale Capital provided additional support, according to a release shared with The Block. Starpower is creating a decentralized network of energy sources, including storage batteries and electric vehicles, to help meet power needs. Its protocol amassed 1.5 million registered wallets and over 16,000 activated devices, in addition to $1 million in revenue, the release continues. The firm intends to use the funds to continue building its decentralized platform and increase efforts to improve user adoption. Start your day with the most influential events and analysis happening across the digital asset ecosystem. Enter Email Also receive The Scoop, The Funding, and our weekly Data & Insights newsletters By signing-up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy “Starpower envisions a future where decentralized energy solutions address the real-world challenges of renewable energy volatility and the growing energy demands of AI," said Laser Ding, CEO and Co-Founder of Starpower. "By integrating advanced batteries (DeSci) into a resilient, decentralized network, Starpower ensures stable, scalable energy while alleviating pressure on the power grid." Starpower previously raised $1.5 million in pre-seed funding led by the DAO Alliance.

The blockchain industry is currently experiencing significant fluctuations, particularly highlighted by the latest price analysis of Filecoin (FIL). Despite positive market signals and technical support, FIL struggles to maintain upward momentum, currently priced around $5.14. The analysis indicates a mix of highs and lows, with stability found near $4.85. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 56 suggests a cautiously optimistic outlook, although challenges from major cloud storage firms and regulatory uncertainties remain. The resistance level at $8.42, linked to the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement, is critical for any potential price recovery. Investors are watching these developments closely, hoping for a resurgence in Filecoin's market performance. In parallel, the Web3 ecosystem is expanding rapidly, bridging the gap between decentralized and traditional finance. Partnerships, such as that between Pyth Network and Revolut, showcase how decentralized frameworks can enhance the financial sector by providing real-time data to blockchain applications. This evolution encourages traditional financial institutions to explore decentralized markets, paving the way for broader adoption. As the Web3 ecosystem matures, advancements in data sharing, security, and decentralized finance (DeFi) are becoming more practical, solidifying a robust foundation for future growth. A standout player in this evolving landscape is Web3Bay, which is revolutionizing e-commerce by integrating blockchain technology with a user-centric approach. The platform has successfully raised over $630K and sold 175 million of its 3BAY tokens at an attractive price of $0.0039675. Web3Bay emphasizes community governance, allowing token holders to participate in decision-making processes as it transitions towards a Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO). This community-focused model not only empowers users but also enhances the value of transactions through discounts. With plans for NFT marketplaces and cross-chain interactions, Web3Bay is poised to redefine the future of decentralized e-commerce, making it a promising opportunity for those interested in digital asset trading.

The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a significant surge in activity, particularly with the introduction of Bitcoin and Ethereum Spot ETFs. Major financial players like BlackRock, VanEck, and Fidelity are injecting substantial liquidity into the market, which has shown resilience despite challenges faced in 2024. Nate Geraci, co-founder of the ETF Store and the ETF Institute, emphasizes the growing interest in digital assets and predicts a bright future for crypto ETFs. He highlights that these financial products provide investors with easier access to complex markets, enhancing their investment portfolios. As we look ahead to 2025, Geraci forecasts a positive trajectory for crypto ETFs, driven by shifting political trends and potential leadership changes at the SEC. With pro-crypto figures like Paul Atkins likely to succeed Gary Gensler, the landscape for crypto ETFs could become more favorable. Geraci anticipates the launch of an Ethereum Spot ETF that includes staking, which could reignite interest in Ethereum. Additionally, he predicts that crypto index ETFs from Bitwise and Grayscale will gain approval, expanding the range of financial products available in the sector. The integration of traditional finance with decentralized finance is also noteworthy, as seen with the emergence of crypto indices like the Meme Index, catering to various investor profiles. Geraci suggests that Vanguard may reconsider its stance on crypto ETFs in 2025, potentially capitalizing on market opportunities. Furthermore, he predicts the approval of Solana and XRP Spot ETFs, fueled by optimism surrounding regulatory developments. As the regulatory environment evolves, particularly with Donald Trump’s anticipated presidency, the U.S. could solidify its position as a global cryptocurrency hub, making 2025 a pivotal year for crypto ETFs.

Nosana is making significant strides in the decentralized computing landscape with its innovative GPU-based compute grid designed specifically for AI inference tasks. By leveraging underutilized consumer-grade GPUs, Nosana offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional cloud providers, boasting savings of up to 2.5 times. In 2024 alone, the network completed 985,000 jobs, driven by a surge in demand following the onboarding of 1,000 new nodes. With 29.7 million NOS tokens staked, valued at approximately $92.4 million, the project is gearing up for its mainnet launch scheduled for Q1 2025, which will fully operationalize its GPU compute grid. Initially launched in 2021 to provide decentralized automation services for developers, Nosana pivoted towards AI inference in response to the explosive growth in AI demand post-ChatGPT. This strategic shift was motivated by the realization that the need for AI computational resources was outpacing supply, leading to high costs. By creating a marketplace where individuals can rent out their idle GPU power, Nosana not only addresses this demand but also allows GPU owners to earn passive income. The project’s focus on AI inference positions it uniquely in the decentralized computing sector, aiming to provide accessible and affordable resources for AI developers and researchers. Nosana's ecosystem is further strengthened by partnerships with various organizations, enhancing its GPU marketplace's capabilities. Collaborations with companies like Matrix One and PiKNiK illustrate the versatility of Nosana's network in handling diverse computational tasks. As the project prepares for its mainnet launch, the NOS token will play a crucial role in facilitating transactions and governance within the network. With a dynamic staking rewards system in place, Nosana is poised to attract and retain node operators, ensuring the sustainability and growth of its decentralized compute grid in the competitive AI landscape.