AI-focused decentralized data layers, often referred to as "AI Layer 1," as a new infrastructure that merges Artificial Intelligence (AI) with blockchain or Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT). This approach aims to create decentralized, secure, and scalable AI applications by distributing control and operations across a network rather than relying on a single authority. Key architectural components discussed include Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) for transparency and trust, Federated Learning for privacy-preserving AI training, and Edge AI for distributed computing. The document outlines significant benefits such as enhanced data privacy, increased transparency, and the democratization of AI, while also acknowledging challenges like technical complexities, scalability hurdles, and the evolving regulatory landscape. It also surveys current pioneering projects and their real-world applications, concluding with strategic recommendations and future research areas for this transformative technology.
