The integration of AI and cryptocurrency has become the hottest narrative of this year. Several projects are redefining the way computing power is allocated in this space.

First is TAO (Bittensor). This project has built the world's largest decentralized algorithm sharing network, often referred to as the "Bitcoin of AI." The core logic is simple—using incentive mechanisms to bring together dispersed computing power.

Next is RNDR (Render), which focuses on distributed GPU rendering. With the emergence of video generation tools like Sora and Veo, the demand for GPUs has exploded. RNDR fills this gap and is seen as a "computing power provider" role within the Web3 ecosystem.

The FET project takes a comprehensive approach. It integrates multiple technologies and has deployments across data, models, and interactions, making it one of the most well-rounded blue-chip players in the AI track.

AKT (Akash) has a more straightforward approach—decentralizing cloud computing. It offers costs that are 80% cheaper than centralized solutions. In the context of GPU shortages in 2026, this advantage will be amplified infinitely.

IO (io.net), backed by the Solana ecosystem, uses the DePIN model to integrate global computing resources. With strong financing capabilities, it is expected to become a new-generation computing hub.

NEAR's approach is different. Its founder is one of the authors of the Transformer architecture, with a deep technical background. It adopts a chain abstraction plus AI route, aiming to enable native AI integration on the blockchain.

The common logic behind these projects is: can decentralization provide more efficient and cheaper solutions in the AI era? By 2026, the answer may soon be revealed.