Near Protocol has launched an alpha version of NEAR.AI Assistant, a crosschain AI tool that can create memecoins and make online purchases. It uses Near Intents technology to swap assets across multiple blockchains, with plans to expand support. The assistant's key feature is enabling AI agents to communicate and coordinate complex tasks with each other.
Bitcoin mining companies are diversifying into AI and high-performance computing (HPC) data centres. While Bitcoin miners can adjust energy consumption quickly, AI and HPC operations require constant, massive energy supply. This high demand poses challenges for utility providers. Bitcoin mining facilities are significantly cheaper to build and run than AI/HPC data centres. To meet energy demands, tech giants are turning to nuclear power providers.
AI agents may benefit retail crypto traders by monitoring markets continuously and avoiding human biases. However, trading remains zero-sum and AI can't change market fundamentals. Investors shouldn't increase budgets solely due to AI. A Web3 VC predicts significant growth in crypto gaming and AI markets, estimating 10% gaming penetration by end of 2026.
