Blockchain infrastructure development company Ankr has announced the launch of a blockchain network called Neura, specifically designed for the allocation of GPU resources for artificial intelligence and machine learning. The Neura test network will adopt the ANKR token as the native cryptocurrency of Neura and is expected to launch the main network later this year.
Neura aims to enable developers to build decentralized products that combine AI, cloud computing, and blockchain technology. Specifically, Neura will provide funding, GPU resources, and data storage for startups in need of machine learning computing resources.
In recent years, there has been a shortage of GPU resources due to changing industry trends, leading to increased costs for training AI models and limited customization options. Neura seeks to address these challenges by providing a decentralized platform for GPU providers and users.
Neura is a blockchain built on the Cosmos SDK and is EVM compatible. It facilitates the registration of GPU providers, the registration of users with computing service demands, and the distribution of ANKR tokens based on computing results.
The platform integrates storage solutions such as Celestia, EigenLayer, IPFS, and Arweave to store AI model data and computing results. Most of the AI computing is done off-chain, while Neura focuses on incentivizing the models.
The operation of Neura involves the following steps: task providers submit tasks, encrypt the task content using the public key of the selected GPU provider, and store the encrypted content off-chain. Task owners create a new transaction on the Neura network, which includes the ID of the previous transaction, the ID of the selected GPU provider, the duration of the task, and specific requirements for GPU, RAM, and CPU. The transaction is confirmed by validators on the Neura network, and the corresponding smart contract is updated. The selected GPU provider detects the relevant transaction, verifies it, and executes the task. After completing the task, the GPU provider uploads the result to the off-chain storage. The GPU provider then creates another transaction to update the task status and provide a reference ID for the result.
ANKR tokens will be used on the Neura network for payment of GPU resources, participation in the initial model offering (IMO), and rewarding GPU providers. Additionally, ERC-7641 tokens can be issued on the Neura network to share the revenue generated from AI model creation, ensuring a fair reward distribution system for contributors and investors. NFTs (ERC-404) can also be used to share ownership of the models with participants.
Neura and other decentralized GPU computing platforms like io.net, Akash Network, and Near are competing in the market, but competition is increasing. Ankr’s entry into the market will undoubtedly intensify the competition.
However, decentralized GPU computing platforms such as Neura face the challenge of competing with traditional cloud computing providers like AWS and Google Cloud while also attracting teams with computing needs who are not familiar with the crypto ecosystem.
Overall, Neura aims to address the challenges in the AI and machine learning industry by providing a decentralized platform for GPU resources and incentivizing model development and sharing.