Latest DePIN News

Zulu Network, a pioneering Bitcoin layer 2 solution optimized for Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN), has officially launched. By leveraging the security and value of Bitcoin, Zulu Network aims to revolutionize the sharing and monetization of computing resources within the blockchain ecosystem. As the demand for decentralized services grows, traditional infrastructures are becoming outdated and centralized. Zulu Network addresses these challenges by allowing users to tokenize their computing power, changing how physical resources are utilized in the digital space. With over 770K users on the Zulu Network Testnet, anticipation is high for the Mainnet launch. **Key Features of Zulu Network** - Tokenized Computing Power: Users can tokenize their computing resources for decentralized access and efficient utilization. - Bitcoin Layer 2 Architecture: Built on top of the Bitcoin blockchain, Zulu Network enhances transaction speeds, reduces costs, and maintains security while enabling EVM compatibility. - Decentralized Governance: Stakeholders can make critical decisions regarding protocol developments, revenue sharing, and ecosystem growth. - Incentivized Participation: Users can earn Bitcoin rewards by depositing and staking Zulu tokens (ZULU) to strengthen the network. **Transforming the Future of Decentralized Infrastructure** Eric Lifson, Co-Founder of Zulu Network, emphasizes that Zulu Network is not just a layer 2 solution but a transformative ecosystem empowering individuals and businesses towards a decentralized future. The focus on tokenized computing power within the DePIN framework will reshape decentralized services, infrastructure ownership, and resource sharing, potentially delivering real utility beyond Bitcoin's store of value. Zulu Network invites developers and tech enthusiasts to participate in this project promoting decentralization and maximizing computing resource utility. Interested parties can stay updated on the upcoming token sale and platform launch by visiting [Zulu Network's website](https://zulunetwork.io/) and following them on social media.

Marwari Network, a decentralized physical infrastructure network, has successfully raised $10.8 million in a funding round. The round was led by Anfield Ltd, Borderless Capital, and 1kx, with participation from Accord Ventures, Animoca Brands Japan, Blockchange Ventures, Draper Dragon, and Samsung Next, among others. Notable angel investors include Helium co-founder Sean Carey, The Tie co-founder and CEO Joshua Frank, Pete Townsend of Techstars, and Galaxy Digital’s former exec Ivan Brightly. The fundraising was structured as a simple agreement for future equity (SAFE) with token warrants. The total amount raised by Marwari Network now stands at $17.3 million, following an oversubscribed seed round of $6.5 million announced earlier in February 2023. The company is focused on building a decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN) that aims to scale spatial computing, enabling interactions with virtual 3D spaces using extended reality (XR), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) devices.

In recent years, tech giants have amassed significant control over the internet, posing threats to data privacy and digital security. The CrowdStrike incident highlighted the vulnerabilities of centralized systems, emphasizing the need for a solution. Enter Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN), offering a groundbreaking approach to integrating the physical world with blockchain technology. By connecting devices like sensors, IoT gadgets, and computers to decentralized networks, DePIN enables users to earn digital assets by sharing data and resources, breaking free from centralized middlemen who exploit user data for profit. Real-World Applications DePIN-based projects are reshaping various aspects of daily life. For instance, GEODNET leverages blockchain to enhance geolocation accuracy, benefiting industries like agriculture and construction. Community-driven internet access, exemplified by WiFi Map's global hotspots, challenges traditional telecom monopolies. DIMO enables users to monetize vehicle data, fostering innovation in insurance and fleet management. Witness Chain unifies DePIN projects, fostering collaboration and establishing a decentralized infrastructure supply chain. XNET aims to provide network connectivity to the offline population using blockchain technology and CBRS bandwidth, while storage networks like Fi...

Mawari Network has raised $10.8 million in strategic funding from Borderless Capital, 1kx, and other investors. The project, built on Solana, aims to scale spatial computing. Anfield Ltd, Borderless Capital, and 1kx co-led the funding round, with participation from various investors including Accord Ventures, Animoca Brands Japan, Blockchange Ventures, Draper Dragon, Samsung Next, and angel investors like Sean Carey and Joshua Frank. The round, structured as a simple agreement for future equity (SAFE) with token warrants, brings Mawari's total capital raised to $17.3 million. **What is Mawari Network?** Mawari Network is a Solana-based DePIN project focused on scaling spatial computing. The network, founded by Luis Oscar Ramirez and Takeo Yatabe, aims to blend the physical world with digital information through technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR). Mawari, meaning 'your surroundings' in Japanese, was born out of the founders' recognition of the challenges artists faced in creating real-time immersive content. The network operates behind the scenes to deliver real-time 3D content for VR, AR, and XR devices, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience for users worldwide.

As AI evolves and the need for more computational power increases, the demands on digital infrastructure have never been greater. DePIN, or decentralized physical infrastructure networks, is a groundbreaking approach poised to revolutionize business operations. Traditional centralized models struggle to keep up with growing demands, while DePIN leverages distributed networks for flexibility, scalability, and resilience. Tory Green, CEO of Io.net, highlights the limitations of traditional systems and the benefits of DePIN in terms of scalability, cost efficiency, and resilience. **Advantages of DePIN** One of DePIN's key advantages is its unparalleled scalability by utilizing underutilized global resources. IO.net aggregates GPUs worldwide, offering nearly unlimited compute capacity. Cost efficiency is another highlight, as DePIN significantly reduces infrastructure costs by leveraging idle resources, making high-performance computing accessible to startups. In terms of resilience, DePIN outperforms traditional models by eliminating single points of failure. With decentralized nodes distributed globally, tasks like AI model training can be performed with lower latency, improving efficiency and reliability. **Benefits for Users** Users working with IO.net's decentralized network benefit from affordable, scalable compute power, particularly advantageous for smaller companies and startups. Compared to traditional cloud providers, IO.net offers substantial cost savings, unlimited compute capacity, and enhanced reliability. Users can enjoy more compute power for less cost, with added flexibility, allowing them to focus on their core business operations.

In a recent episode, Sean Carey, Partner at Borderless Capital, delved into the world of DePIN. The discussion revolved around the selling points of DePIN, the sustainability of DePIN projects, and the most suitable infrastructure for DePIN. The conversation also touched on the seamless integration of crypto with DePIN networks. Towards the end, the focus shifted to Solana's significant influence on the future of DePIN networks. DragonSwap: Transforming the DeFi Landscape DragonSwap, the DeFi Hub on Sei's Layer 1, is revolutionizing the decentralized exchange (DEX) scene. Operating on Sei's sub-second execution environment, DragonSwap is introducing an 'onchain CEX' model that utilizes chain-abstracted AVSs, enabling cross-chain asset transactions. With existing incentives and upcoming partnerships with Stargate and Frax, Sei users can anticipate more rewards in September. Dive into farming on Sei today at [dragonswap.app](https://dragonswap.app/). Subscribe and Stay Informed For more insights and updates on the crypto market, subscribe to the Blockworks Daily Newsletter. Stay tuned to Lightspeed for engaging discussions on DePIN, crypto, and Solana's role in shaping the future of decentralized finance.

Synesis Foundation, known for developing Solana’s first AI data pre-processing solution, has teamed up with AirMoney DEGN to introduce consumer hardware focused on DePIN. The collaboration aims to enhance the crypto experience beyond traditional wallets by offering features like web3 protocol interaction, cryptocurrency trading, and play-to-earn games through the AirMoney DEGN device. This partnership seeks to boost the popularity of crypto hardware within the DePIN ecosystem. **Synesis Milestone and Future Developments** Synesis recently achieved a significant milestone by completing over 1.5 million AI data transactions on Solana. CEO Isaac Bang expressed excitement about decentralizing data sourcing and validation for AI solutions. The collaboration with AirMoney DEGN will allow users to earn crypto for supporting the DePIN economy through data validation. Additionally, Synesis has developed a new Reinforcement Learning with Human Feedback (RLHF) system, offering rewards for verifying data with AirMoney DEGN devices.

Raullen Chai, Co-founder and CEO of IoTeX, believes that DePIN will play a vital role in the proliferation of smart cities. The CEO emphasizes the importance of focusing on 'world-changing technology' for impactful innovation. He also notes that a project's growth is often limited by the scale of the problem it addresses. The promise of smart cities is significant, utilizing technology and data to enhance urban life. Despite challenges like data privacy concerns, the vision of interconnected cities powered by IoT, data analytics, and AI remains futuristic. **DePIN and a Smarter World** Raullen Chai envisions Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) as a key to unlocking smart cities' potential. By combining IoT with blockchain, IoTeX aims to empower individuals to control their smart devices' data and value. DePIN fosters decentralized operation of IoT devices, ensuring secure and efficient digital activities for users. Chai believes that this decentralized approach will lead to thriving smart cities, shifting power from big corporations to individual contributors. DePIN not only enhances urban services but also prioritizes data privacy and user control. Chai's proactive stance on managing IoT data challenges reflects a commitment to empowering users while reducing reliance on centralized platforms. As the global IoT market is projected to reach USD 4,062.34 billion by 2032, DePIN's focus on secure data handling and user empowerment is crucial for the future of smart cities. New projects in the tech industry should prioritize 'world-changing technology and infrastructure' to make a lasting impact. Chai's emphasis on empowering individuals through DePIN highlights the shift towards decentralized, user-centric solutions in the evolving landscape of smart cities and IoT.

Blockchain platform XProtocol has introduced the XForge smartphone, touted as the world's first device with a built-in DePIN node. Priced at $299, XForge aims to enhance the gaming experience and seamlessly integrate with the XProtocol decentralized network. The device allows users to act as full-fledged blockchain nodes, with the first 10,000 buyers receiving a Xardian node, offering up to a 20% bonus on node rewards. Additionally, owners are promised 10% of the total token supply and exclusive airdrops from top projects. Validators on XForge will earn rewards in $xKICK tokens, convertible to $KICK. The technical requirements for running Xardian nodes include 4GB of RAM, 2 CPU cores, 60GB of space, an x86/x64 processor, and a stable internet connection. The smartphone will run on Android OS, feature 256GB storage, 12GB RAM, and a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor.

At the recent Token 2049 and Solana Breakpoint conferences, analysts noted the dominance of both AI and DePIN as the most promising use cases for blockchain technology. These conferences delved into the exploration of promising protocols and rising trends within these sectors. Furthermore, the surprise of continued institutional adoption of Solana was a key point of discussion. This unexpected trend showcases the growing interest and trust from traditional financial institutions towards Solana's blockchain ecosystem.