Solana News Today: Akash Rethinks Blockchain to Boost AI's Decentralized Future

Akash Network, a decentralized cloud computing platform, announced plans to deprecate its proprietary Cosmos SDK-based blockchain and initiate a public search for a new network to host its operations. Founder Greg Osuri outlined the decision as part of a strategic shift to enhance security, liquidity, and community engagement while maintaining Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) compatibility. The move, first revealed in an X post, has sparked speculation about potential destinations, with Solana cited as a "strong contender" despite Osuri emphasizing a "community-driven" evaluation processAkash Network to deprecate its Cosmos chain, begin search for new network^[1].

The project's current Cosmos chain, launched in 2020, underpins a decentralized marketplace for GPU and compute resources, connecting AI developers and cloud users with independent providers. In 2023, the network introduced support for Nvidia GPUs via its Mainnet 6 upgrade, offering lower costs compared to centralized cloud providersAkash Network to deprecate its Cosmos chain, begin search for new network^[1]. However, Osuri argued that retaining core integrations with tools like Osmosis and Keplr would ensure seamless user workflows during the transition. A request for proposals (RFP) inviting blockchain foundations to participate in the migration is slated for "the coming weeks," according to the founderAkash Network to deprecate its Cosmos chain, begin search for new network^[1].

The decision reflects broader trends in the Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) sector, which is projected to grow to $3.5 trillion by 2028 as AI and blockchain convergeHow DePIN Can Solve AI’s Computing Shortage^[5]. DePIN projects, which merge blockchain with community-owned infrastructure, are increasingly seen as a solution to centralized cloud bottlenecks. The World Economic Forum highlighted DePIN's potential to democratize AI development by enabling decentralized machine learning processes, while projects like Akash and Render Network are positioning themselves as alternatives to hyperscalers like AWS and AzureHow DePIN Can Solve AI’s Computing Shortage^[5].

Osuri's criteria for the new network-"strong security, deep liquidity, and a high-quality community"-underscore the challenges of scaling decentralized infrastructure. The Block's research notes that DePIN's growth is constrained by hardware access, regulatory uncertainty, and scalability hurdlesAkash Network to deprecate its Cosmos chain, begin search for new network^[1]. Meanwhile, Phemex's analysis emphasized that Akash's migration could evolve its staking model beyond consensus security, aligning with broader industry shifts toward tokenized incentivesReal-Time Crypto News Feed | 24/7 Flash News | Phemex^[2].

The search for a new home also highlights the competitive landscape for blockchain networks. While Cosmos remains a foundational ecosystem for IBC-compatible chains, alternatives like Solana-known for its high throughput and low fees-are gaining traction for AI and compute workloadsReal-Time Crypto News Feed | 24/7 Flash News | Phemex^[2]. Osuri's acknowledgment of Solana as a "strong contender" aligns with Krako Insight's 2025 predictions, which forecast decentralized AI compute networks capturing 20% of AI workloads by year-end.

Akash's roadmap includes maintaining transparency throughout the migration process, with no formal timeline disclosed. The project's 2025 roadmap outlines enhancements to its provider console, billing systems, and GPU support, alongside long-term goals like "Akash at Home," which aims to enable home users to contribute computing powerThe 2025 AI DePIN Boom: Predictions & What’s Next …^[4]. These initiatives reflect a broader vision to decentralize infrastructure further, reducing reliance on large data centers amid rising energy costs and demand for edge computing.

The migration underscores the evolving role of DePIN in addressing AI's computing shortages. As centralized providers struggle to meet surging demand, decentralized networks like Akash are aggregating idle GPUs and edge devices to offer cost-effective alternatives. Bain & Company estimates that hyperscale data centers will need to expand to 1 gigawatt capacities by 2030, a feat only achievable by a handful of tech giants. DePIN's ability to pool distributed resources could democratize access to AI infrastructure, enabling startups and researchers to compete with well-funded incumbents.

Industry observers caution that widespread adoption hinges on education and overcoming initial setup costs for participants. However, the potential rewards are significant: DePIN's tokenized incentive models could create new revenue streams while enhancing security through decentralized governance. As Akash's transition unfolds, its success may set a precedent for how DePIN projects navigate the challenges of scaling physical infrastructure in a digital age.