News
Blockchain Startup Launches Decentralized AI Computing Network
- By John K. Waters
- 07/31/2025
Planck Network, a blockchain infrastructure company, has launched a decentralized network aimed at reducing costs for artificial intelligence computing by connecting individual GPU owners with developers seeking processing power.
The company said its new layer-0 blockchain creates a marketplace where users can rent out graphics processing units to AI developers, potentially cutting costs by up to 90% compared to traditional cloud services from Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
The San Francisco-based company joins a growing number of blockchain projects attempting to challenge the dominance of major technology companies in AI infrastructure. Current AI development relies heavily on expensive cloud computing services controlled by a handful of tech giants.
"Centralized AI compute is prohibitively expensive," a Planck spokesperson said. "By decentralizing the GPU network, Planck can offer significant cost savings."
Market Growth Drives Competition
The GPU-as-a-service market reached $4 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow 23% annually to $32 billion by 2034, according to research firm Precedence Research. The growth stems partly from an ongoing shortage of AI chips that has driven up computing costs.
Planck competes with other alternative computing providers including Vast.ai, CoreWeave and Lambda, all seeking to capitalize on demand for cheaper AI processing power.
The company said it generated $1.5 million in revenue since February, primarily from GPU rental services, ahead of its blockchain launch.
Token-Based Incentives
Planck's system rewards GPU owners with cryptocurrency tokens based on two metrics: machine uptime and actual usage by developers. The dual-reward structure aims to ensure reliable service while incentivizing participation in the network.
The blockchain generates revenue through transaction fees and charges for software development tools. Planck described its infrastructure as targeting "decentralized physical infrastructure networks" that combine hardware with token incentives.
Similar blockchain-based AI projects include Bittensor, which focuses on decentralized machine learning, and Fetch.ai, which provides tools for building AI agents.
Regulatory Questions Remain
The launch comes as regulators worldwide examine both AI development and cryptocurrency projects. Planck did not specify which jurisdictions would have access to its services or how it plans to address potential regulatory requirements.
The company previously secured a $200 million investment commitment from Rollman Management Digital, though it did not disclose how much of that funding has been deployed.
Planck's approach reflects broader efforts within the cryptocurrency industry to apply blockchain technology to AI infrastructure, though the practical benefits of decentralized computing networks compared to established cloud providers remain unproven at scale.
About the Author
John K. Waters is the editor in chief of a number of Converge360.com sites, with a focus on high-end development, AI and future tech. He's been writing about cutting-edge technologies and culture of Silicon Valley for more than two decades, and he's written more than a dozen books. He also co-scripted the documentary film Silicon Valley: A 100 Year Renaissance, which aired on PBS. He can be reached at [email protected].