Latest DePIN News

VaultLayer, in collaboration with Lit Protocol, is introducing a chain-abstraction SDK aimed at simplifying decentralized finance (DeFi) interactions on Bitcoin. Currently, Bitcoin DeFi accounts for only 1% of the $95 billion Total Value Locked (TVL), but with the rapid growth of Layer 2 solutions, this figure is expected to increase significantly. The existing user experience in Bitcoin DeFi is often fragmented and complex, requiring users to manage multiple wallets and navigate intricate bridging processes. VaultLayer seeks to address these challenges by providing a unified platform that enhances the user experience, making it easier for individuals to stake and earn with their Bitcoin assets. The VaultLayer SDK leverages Lit Protocol's advanced key management network to streamline transactions across Bitcoin Layer 1 and Layer 2. By employing a chain-abstraction approach, VaultLayer simplifies interactions across various blockchains, effectively hiding complexities such as key management and transaction processing. Unlike traditional solutions that depend on Ethereum standards, VaultLayer utilizes Lit Protocol to create off-chain Bitcoin smart accounts, ensuring secure and seamless transactions. This innovation allows users to manage all their assets from a single account, regardless of whether they are on Bitcoin or EVM-compatible networks. In addition to simplifying user interactions, VaultLayer's SDK introduces features that enable the minting of Lit Programmable Key Pairs (PKPs) using Bitcoin wallets and signing Bitcoin transactions with Lit Actions. This functionality not only enhances security but also streamlines the process of integrating Bitcoin into DeFi applications. As VaultLayer continues to evolve, it aims to make Bitcoin DeFi more accessible and user-friendly, paving the way for broader adoption and utilization of Bitcoin in the decentralized finance landscape.

VanEck, a prominent asset management company, has recently announced the launch of a new venture capital fund named VanEck Ventures, with an impressive capital of $30 million. This fund is specifically aimed at supporting the growth and development of the cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence (AI) industries. VanEck Ventures plans to focus its investments on early-stage startups within these sectors, indicating a strong belief in the potential of innovative technologies that are shaping the future of finance and technology. The move by VanEck comes at a time when both the crypto and AI industries are experiencing significant growth and interest from investors. By establishing this fund, VanEck not only reinforces its commitment to these emerging markets but also positions itself as a key player in the evolving landscape of digital assets and AI solutions. This strategic investment approach may lead to the identification of groundbreaking projects that could redefine the boundaries of technology and finance. In light of these developments, ChainCatcher emphasizes the importance of viewing blockchain technology with a rational perspective. Investors are reminded to enhance their risk awareness and exercise caution regarding various virtual token issuances and speculative activities. The content shared by ChainCatcher serves as a reminder that all information provided is market-related and should not be construed as investment advice, urging readers to conduct their own research before making financial decisions.

Coinbase has announced that it will be adding support for the artificial intelligence-focused altcoin, io.net (IO), on the Solana (SOL) network. This addition marks a significant step for the decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN), which aims to leverage idle graphics processing units (GPUs) for machine learning (ML) and AI projects. According to Coinbase, trading for IO will commence on or after 9 a.m. Pacific Time on October 9th, 2024, contingent upon meeting liquidity conditions. The trading will be initiated in phases, and it is important to note that support for IO may be limited in certain jurisdictions. At the time of writing, IO is trading at $1.77, reflecting a decline of over 3% in the past 24 hours. With a market capitalization of $168 million, io.net ranks as the 295th-largest cryptocurrency project. The project aims to democratize access to computing power by aggregating over one million GPUs from independent data centers, crypto miners, and other crypto projects like Filecoin and Render. This initiative is particularly timely given the increasing demand for GPU compute resources driven by the rapid growth of AI and ML workloads. The io.net project emphasizes its mission to make computing more scalable, accessible, and efficient. Current major cloud providers possess approximately 10-15 exaFLOPS of GPU compute capacity. However, the anticipated demand for GPU compute in the cloud could surge to between 20-25 exaFLOPS, reflecting the escalating requirements for AI/ML model training and inferencing. As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, the integration of AI-focused projects like io.net could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized computing.

The cryptocurrency landscape is witnessing the emergence of a new concept known as DePIN, or Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks. This term encompasses cryptocurrencies that provide real-world utility, particularly in the realm of physical devices. Unlike previous trends such as DeFi and NFTs, DePIN focuses on enabling users to monetize their physical infrastructure, such as 5G networks, WiFi, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. By allowing users to share their resources, DePIN aims to create a decentralized ecosystem where individuals can earn rewards while contributing to a more connected world. Several projects exemplify the DePIN model, including Filecoin and Storj, which allow users to earn cryptocurrency by storing data on their devices, positioning themselves as competitors to traditional cloud services like AWS. Other notable projects include Helium, which offers affordable cellphone plans while incentivizing users to provide network coverage, and Theta, a decentralized streaming service that promises faster content delivery than mainstream platforms. These initiatives not only highlight the potential of DePIN but also suggest a shift towards more user-centric models in the crypto space. Despite the skepticism surrounding new crypto trends, DePIN appears to hold significant promise. It aligns with the growing demand for decentralized solutions in everyday life, as evidenced by projects like Chirp Wireless and Natix, which leverage community participation for traffic and driving reports. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, DePIN may represent a pivotal moment in the integration of blockchain technology with real-world applications, offering both economic incentives and enhanced user autonomy. With its potential to revolutionize infrastructure management, DePIN could indeed have lasting impact in the crypto ecosystem.

The Helium Network Token (HNT) is currently experiencing significant market fluctuations, with a market capitalization of $1.14 billion, ranking it at #60 in the cryptocurrency market. Over the past week, HNT has seen a notable decline of 13.16%, yet it has rebounded impressively with a 120% increase over the last 90 days. The price action is currently forming a symmetrical triangle pattern, suggesting that HNT is at a critical juncture. Analysts are questioning whether bullish momentum will lead to a breakout rally that could push the price to the $10 mark this October. In examining the daily chart, HNT's recovery rally has transitioned into a sideways movement within the symmetrical triangle. This pattern follows a breakout from a falling wedge that began in early July, with HNT initially recovering from the psychological $3 level. Presently, the price is consolidating between the 78.60% and 61.80% Fibonacci levels, specifically at $7.782 and $6.365, respectively. Despite the bullish alignment of key exponential moving averages (EMAs), there are signs of a bearish cycle that may threaten a breakdown within the triangle. The local support trendline and the 100-day EMA are critical levels to watch as they could influence HNT's future price trajectory. Looking ahead, if HNT can break out of the triangle pattern, it may target the $1.10 neckline, potentially leading to further gains with targets set at $14 and $21 based on Fibonacci retracement levels. However, should the price fall below $6.36, crucial support levels at $5.527 and $4.80 could come into play. As traders and investors remain vigilant, the question of whether HNT will reach the $10 mark this year continues to spark interest in the cryptocurrency community.

Bittensor (TAO) has recently experienced a remarkable surge, with its price skyrocketing by 300%, capturing the attention of traders and investors alike. As of the latest updates, TAO is priced at $601.10, with a trading volume of $216.9 million over the past 24 hours. Despite a slight decline of 4.07% in the last day, the token has shown a 9.34% increase over the week, indicating sustained interest in the market. The rapid expansion of subnets, which have become a vital part of Bittensor's ecosystem, is a significant factor contributing to this growth. With over 50 active subnets and more on the way, the network's capacity has been enhanced, attracting both developers and users, which in turn boosts TAO's market performance. The recent breakout of TAO from a descending channel has been a key catalyst for its bullish trend. However, analysts have noted a bearish divergence between TAO's price and the Relative Strength Index (RSI), suggesting a potential correction may be on the horizon. Key support levels are identified around the $300 mark, which previously served as both resistance and support during the token's rally. If TAO can maintain stability above this level, it may provide a solid base for future growth. On the resistance side, levels between $580 and $600 are crucial; a sustained breakout above these could lead to further gains for TAO, especially if market conditions remain favorable. In terms of market dynamics, TAO's price action has shown some correlation with Bitcoin (BTC), which could influence its next moves. A correction in Bitcoin may lead to increased volatility for Bittensor, while a strong recovery in Bitcoin could enhance bullish sentiment across the market, benefiting altcoins like TAO. On-chain data indicates a net outflow of TAO tokens, suggesting that holders are moving their assets into personal wallets, potentially reducing selling pressure. Despite mixed technical indicators, the overall trend for TAO remains positive, and traders are advised to monitor these signals closely for any potential trend reversals.

In recent developments, the demand for local large language models (LLMs) has surged as businesses and developers prioritize data privacy and control. Running LLMs locally allows users to keep their data on their devices, mitigating concerns associated with sending sensitive information to external servers. This article highlights six powerful tools that enable users to run LLMs offline, ensuring enhanced privacy and customization. These tools not only provide a secure environment for data processing but also offer flexibility in terms of model configuration and usage without incurring costs associated with cloud services. Among the notable tools is **GPT4ALL**, which is designed with privacy at its core. It supports a wide range of consumer hardware and allows users to run multiple LLMs without an internet connection. Key features include extensive model libraries, local document integration, and customizable settings for various parameters. Additionally, **Ollama** stands out for its ability to create custom chatbots locally, offering flexible model customization and seamless integration with applications. Both tools cater to developers looking for robust, privacy-focused solutions while maintaining ease of use and accessibility. Another noteworthy tool is **LLaMa.cpp**, known for its minimal setup and high performance across different hardware. It supports a variety of popular models and integrates well with open-source AI tools. **LM Studio** and **Jan** also provide user-friendly interfaces for running LLMs locally, with features that allow for customizable model parameters and offline functionality. Lastly, **Llamafile** offers a straightforward way to run LLMs through a single executable file, enhancing accessibility across various architectures. Together, these tools exemplify the growing trend of local LLM usage, providing users with the ability to maintain privacy while leveraging advanced AI capabilities.

In an exciting development for the Web 3.0 landscape, aZen Protocol has announced a strategic partnership with Stratos. This collaboration aims to merge aZen's innovative DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network) and SocialFi technologies with Stratos' robust decentralized storage and computing services. By combining these strengths, the partnership is poised to enhance the efficiency and security of decentralized infrastructures, paving the way for a more integrated and user-friendly Web 3.0 experience. At the heart of aZen Protocol is its DePIN framework, which transforms computing resources and applications into NFTs, allowing for efficient management and seamless integration. This framework supports universal computing tasks across various networks and devices, ensuring scalability and security. Additionally, aZen Connect, the SocialFi component, incentivizes user engagement through a click-to-earn model, making it a valuable tool for social media marketing and community interaction. This innovative approach not only rewards participation but also enhances digital traffic, creating a vibrant ecosystem for users. Stratos, known for its decentralized infrastructure, provides essential services that include storage, computing, and blockchain capabilities. With a network of over 800 storage nodes and a capacity exceeding 14 PB, Stratos offers a decentralized alternative to traditional cloud services, ensuring transparency and privacy. The partnership will leverage Stratos' decentralized storage to bolster aZen's tokenized computing resources and enhance the user experience on aZen Connect. Together, aZen and Stratos are set to redefine the landscape of decentralized infrastructure and social engagement, empowering developers and users alike in the evolving Web 3.0 environment.

As Solana continues to benefit from low transaction fees and impressive scalability, tokens such as Bonk (BONK) and Arweave (AR) are experiencing notable growth. Bonk, a community-driven memecoin, has reached a market cap of $1.4 billion, currently priced at $0.0000205. Despite a recent 10% drop, Bonk has shown resilience with a staggering 9517% increase over the past year. Technical indicators suggest a neutral stance, with a rising Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) indicating potential capital inflow and investor confidence, even as the broader crypto market faces challenges. Arweave (AR), which focuses on decentralized permanent data storage, boasts a market cap of nearly $1.2 billion. While it has seen a 2% drop today and a 25% decline over the past week, its yearly performance remains strong with a 347% surge. Current technical analysis shows neutral oscillators and a sell signal from moving averages, with the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 38, suggesting it may be undervalued. The community's bullish sentiment could propel Arweave to new heights as demand for reliable data storage solutions grows. Emerging on the scene is Cutoshi (CUTO), a utility-based meme coin that could potentially outshine both Bonk and Arweave. Currently in its presale stage, Cutoshi operates as a multi-chain decentralized exchange (DEX) with a unique tokenomics model designed to create scarcity and buying pressure. Analysts predict that Cutoshi could see significant growth following its Centralized Exchange (CEX) listing, with potential for a x100 increase in value. As the meme coin market expands, Cutoshi is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, making it a noteworthy token to watch in the evolving blockchain landscape.

StealthEX recently conducted an AMA session on X Spaces in collaboration with IoTeX, and we’re excited to share the highlights with you. Recap of Exclusive AMA: StealthEX and IoTeX Host: StealthEX – instant cryptocurrency exchange. Guest: Giuseppe, DevRel lead at IoTeX. Questions from Twitter: Q1: How will IoTeX’s infrastructure specifically contribute to the advancement of AI? What role does real-time data play in training those models, and how can it impact the accuracy and capabilities of AI agents? Giuseppe: IoTeX’s infrastructure plays a key role in advancing AI by leveraging the DePIN model, where individuals can contribute data or GPU power for AI model training. With our infrastructure, people can provide real-time data, which is essential for improving the accuracy of AI models. What makes IoTeX unique is that everything is verifiable on our Layer 1 blockchain, meaning that anyone can check the contributions and computations, ensuring that AI models are built on trusted data sources. This adds transparency and boosts the reliability of AI systems. Q2: As IoTeX transitions into version 2.0, what new tools, protocols, or frameworks are being introduced to enhance the experience of developers building DApps on DePIN infrastructure, and how will these changes impact overall ease of use and performance for end users? Giuseppe: IoTeX 2.0 brings all the individual components we’ve been building together into a cohesive infrastructure. This includes tools like wallets, bridges, and decentralized off-chain computation layers. The key here is modularity: developers can choose specific components that suit their project needs, making their applications easier to build and more scalable. For end users, this translates to better performance and a smoother experience since developers don’t have to reinvent the wheel and can focus on creating useful, composable DApps. Q3: With the launch of a web wallet, version 2 was highlighted as an all-in-one DePIN asset manager. What unique features does it offer that position it above other wallets in the DePIN space? Giuseppe: Our web wallet is unique because it’s specifically designed for DePIN assets. It serves as a hub where new DePIN projects can list their tokens, and users can trade these tokens across multiple chains like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and now Solana. We’ve built the wallet to be more than just a place for storage – it’s an entry point for DePIN projects and users to discover, interact with, and cross-trade assets. Additionally, we’re expanding its cross-chain capabilities, making it easier for people to interact with multiple ecosystems within the DePIN space. Q4: Can you explain the features of IoTube as a cross-chain bridge facilitating asset exchanges between IoTeX and major Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains? How does IoTube enhance interoperability and facilitate seamless asset transfers across different blockchain networks? Giuseppe: IoTube is our decentralized bridge that connects IoTeX with major Layer 1 and Layer 2 blockchains like Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and now Solana. Its main feature is enabling seamless cross-chain asset transfers, which is critical for DePIN projects that want to expand their user base across multiple ecosystems. By bridging these chains, we ensure that projects aren’t confined to a single ecosystem but can interact with users and liquidity on other chains. We recently announced our collaboration with Solana, which is a huge step toward making IoTube one of the most interoperable bridges in the DePIN space. Q5: Can you elaborate more on the Halo Grants initiative and its tailored support for DePIN projects at various stages of development? How do these grants foster innovation, provide professional guidance, and drive forward projects within the IoTeX network? Giuseppe: The Halo Grants initiative has been around for a while, providing support for smaller DePIN projects that are just getting started. It’s perfect for teams of one to three people who have great ideas but need resources to get started. We also offer more support for larger projects through our Accelerator program, which helps teams scale up by offering marketing, technical, and community-building assistance. So far, we’ve seen a lot of success with projects launching their devices and tokens, and many are now preparing for their next rounds of funding. The goal of both Halo Grants and the Accelerator is to foster innovation and help these projects grow within our ecosystem. Q6: With the introduction of decentralized governance in IoTeX 2.0, how does the platform balance governance efficiency with decentralization, and what mechanisms are in place to prevent centralization of power within the ecosystem? Giuseppe: Decentralized governance has always been at the core of IoTeX. With IoTeX 2.0, we’ve taken this further by introducing a new DAO structure—what we’re calling the “Marshall DAO.” This DAO is designed to allocate funds and resources to DePIN projects that the community believes are promising. Governance efficiency is maintained through proposals and community voting, ensuring that power isn’t concentrated in a few hands. By enabling the community to participate in decision-making, we prevent centralization and ensure that the platform remains transparent and fair. Live Questions Q1: Can you explain how the modular architecture of IoTeX 2.0 supports the scalability and specialized needs of DePIN projects? How does it compare to other existing solutions in the market? Giuseppe: The modular architecture of IoTeX 2.0 allows projects to select specific components they need, like identity protocols or off-chain computation, which increases scalability. This flexibility is key to supporting projects with unique requirements while enabling composability—where different projects using the same modules can easily collaborate. Compared to other solutions, IoTeX’s modular approach offers greater interoperability between projects, which is crucial for scalability and growth. The modularity empowers developers to build on top of other DePIN projects and make use of shared resources, something that many other ecosystems don’t offer. Q2: Staking programs are very important for any project. Can I stake your token? Do you have any plans for a staking program? Giuseppe: Yes, staking has been available since we launched IoTeX in 2019, and it operates on a delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) model. You can stake your tokens via stake.iotex.io and either become a delegate or vote for other delegates. We recently introduced liquid staking and passed a proposal that allows staking to be represented as NFTs, making it even more flexible. We currently have between 110 and 120 delegates, with the top 36 responsible for block production. It’s a great way to contribute to the ecosystem and earn rewards while securing the network. Q3: What have been the challenges this project has faced since 2019 after launch? Giuseppe: We’ve faced numerous challenges over the years. One major challenge has been educating people about the value of combining IoT and blockchain. In the early days, it was difficult to explain our vision for DePIN, and getting people to see the benefits of decentralized machine networks took time. On the technical side, building entirely new protocols like off-chain computation layers was also a challenge. There weren’t many existing templates to follow, so we had to push boundaries and innovate. Persistence and constant iteration have been our main strategies for overcoming these challenges. Q4: After all these challenges, what has been your strategy for overcoming them and moving the project forward? Giuseppe: The strategy depends on the challenge. For product-related challenges, we focus on market fit and user research, iterating as needed until we get it right. For narrative challenges, where people don’t yet see the value of what we’re building, we keep pushing forward with our vision until the market catches up. Each challenge has its own unique strategy, but persistence and the willingness to adapt are key. StealthEX: Thank you all for joining today! Recap of Exclusive AMA: StealthEX and IoTeX You can swap IoTeX (IOTX) crypto on StealthEX exchange platform. How to Buy IoTeX Coin? Just go to StealthEX and follow these easy steps: Choose the pair and the amount for your exchange. For example, ETH to IOTX coin. Press the “Start exchange” button. Provide the recipient address to which the coins will be transferred. Move your cryptocurrency for the exchange. Receive your coins! Follow us on Medium, Twitter, Telegram, YouTube, and Publish0x to stay updated about the latest news on StealthEX.io and the rest of the crypto world.