How ICP Is Rewriting the Rules for Decentralized AI

Internet Computer (ICP) has emerged as a leading figure in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology, outpacing many of its peers in development and integration of AI and Big Data. According to recent rankings by Santiment, ICP ranks first among the top 10 AI and Big Data crypto projects by development, showcasing its robust progress in leveraging decentralized networks to enhance AI capabilities. The project’s foundational goal is to create a scalable and efficient platform for building online systems and services, including demanding web applications, without the need for traditional IT infrastructure [2].

ICP’s price has experienced some volatility, with the token dropping roughly 9% since last Thursday, underperforming the Layer 1 category average. As of the latest data, the price of ICP is $5.05, with a market cap of $2.72 billion and a circulating supply of 537 million tokens [1]. The token has faced a 41.83% decline in value over the past year, contrasting with its all-time high of $630.00 in May 2021. Despite this, ICP maintains a strong presence in the crypto market, currently ranking as the 37th most popular tradable asset on Coinbase [1].

The Internet Computer operates by running canister smart contracts on a network of node machines connected through the Internet Computer Protocol (ICP). This decentralized network enables independent data centers worldwide to collaborate, offering an alternative to traditional cloud services. The Network Nervous System (NNS) manages the network, ensuring that instructions are verified and executed correctly. This design positions the Internet Computer as a scalable platform capable of supporting a wide range of online applications and services [1].

Recent developments have further bolstered ICP’s position in the AI and Big Data landscape. In February 2025, the Internet Computer announced a 2025 roadmap aimed at enhancing the developer experience. Additionally, the project unveiled an orbit policy engine in March 2025, providing developers with greater flexibility in managing their applications. In June 2025, ICP smart contracts gained access to the Solana network, expanding their interoperability and potential use cases [1]. These strategic moves highlight the project’s commitment to innovation and its role in advancing the integration of AI and blockchain.

The broader AI and Big Data crypto ecosystem is also witnessing significant momentum. NEAR Protocol, which ranks second in the Santiment rankings, has seen a 0.34% increase in the last 24 hours, with a market cap of nearly $3 billion [2]. Filecoin, ranked third, has demonstrated strong growth, with its price rising 1.3% over the past 24 hours. The project’s focus on decentralized storage solutions has positioned it as a key player in the AI data storage market [2]. Meanwhile, Injective Protocol has also seen growth, with a 3.19% increase in the last 24 hours and a market cap exceeding $1.2 billion [2].

Livepeer, Bittensor, and iExec are also making notable strides in the AI and Big Data space. Livepeer’s decentralized video streaming platform is gaining traction, with its token (LPT) rising 2% in the last 24 hours. Bittensor, with its focus on decentralized machine learning, has seen a 0.9% increase in the last 24 hours, reflecting its growing influence in AI-focused blockchain solutions [2]. iExec RLC is bridging the gap between cloud computing and blockchain, enabling AI-powered decentralized cloud solutions [2].

The convergence of AI and blockchain is driven by several factors, including the surge in AI adoption, GPU shortages, and the need for decentralized data markets. As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, the demand for decentralized infrastructure that ensures trust, fairness, and ownership is growing. Decentralized networks offer an alternative to centralized giants, providing open systems where incentives, data, and access are not gatekept [3]. This shift is particularly relevant in 2025, as investors recognize the potential of AI to transform industries and the role of crypto-native projects in capturing a slice of this multi-trillion-dollar market [3].

However, the AI crypto sector is not without risks. The sector is characterized by high volatility, technical complexity, and regulatory uncertainty. Investors must navigate these challenges carefully, using frameworks to evaluate projects based on use cases, technology, team expertise, tokenomics, and community adoption [3]. The best strategies involve diversification across different categories of AI tokens and managing risk through dollar-cost averaging and secure storage practices [3].

In summary, the Internet Computer (ICP) leads the pack in AI and Big Data integration within the blockchain space, supported by a robust development roadmap and strategic partnerships. As the AI and crypto ecosystems continue to evolve, projects like ICP are positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized AI applications and services. The ongoing developments in this sector highlight the potential for innovation and growth, while also underscoring the importance of careful investment strategies and risk management.

Source:

[1] title1 (https://www.coinbase.com/price/internet-computer)

[2] title2 (https://coinedition.com/top-10-ai-and-big-data-crypto-projects-by-development-icp-near-fil-lead-rankings/)

[3] title3 (https://www.cryptowisser.com/guides/ai-crypto-tokens-2025-investment-guide/)