What is Bittensor (TAO)? 

Bittensor (TAO) is a decentralised network that links machine learning models worldwide. Built on a Substrate-based blockchain architecture similar to Polkadot, it uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism to optimise energy efficiency. TAO tokens are used to incentivise and reward miners for contributing computational power, cover transaction fees, enable governance participation, and access machine learning services. They also play a key role in staking, which strengthens the network's security.

The History of Bittensor (TAO) 

Launched in 2021 by the Opentensor Foundation, Bittensor is a relatively new player in the blockchain space, especially when compared to well-established projects like Tron and Arbitrum. The Opentensor Foundation, founded by developers Jacob Robert Steeves and Ala Shabaana, is the driving force behind Bittensor.

The project's vision is to build a globally connected network of computing power aimed at advancing open-source and accessible AI technologies. Bittensor’s development is guided by a delegate charter, signed by the Opentensor Foundation and other key contributors, which establishes the principles and commitments for the network’s evolution.

Key principles outlined in the charter include:

• The decentralisation of AI to prevent the risks associated with centralised control.
• The protection against harmful uses of AI and machine learning.
• Promoting open-source AI development that remains accessible to all.
• Ensuring open ownership of AI applications.
• Commitment to transparency in the Bittensor blockchain and decision-making processes.

How Does Bittensor (TAO) Work? 

Bittensor utilises a sophisticated network of algorithms and concepts to decentralise AI applications. Let’s explore the core components powering the Bittensor network.

The blockchain network in Bittensor is referred to as "subtensor," which is linked to various platforms known as "subnets." Currently, Bittensor’s network comprises 32 distinct subnets.

Subnets play a crucial role in Bittensor’s operation. A subnet is a competition-driven market where anyone can either create a new subnet or participate in an existing one. This competitive structure promotes growth and sets high standards for users. To create a new subnet, participants must pay with TAO tokens. Alternatively, users can join existing subnets as miners or validators, provided they have sufficient computing resources.

Each subnet serves a specific function. For instance, subnet 1 is responsible for responding to text prompts, while subnet 11 focuses on transcribing spoken language into text using AI.

The 32 AI systems are available for anyone to use, and both miners and validators work to solve tasks within these systems. For example, subnet 19 is designed for image recognition. Validators in this subnet receive images that need to be recognized and labeled, which is then distributed to miners. Miners perform the recognition task and submit their results, which are ranked by validators based on quality.

Miners earn TAO tokens as a reward for the quality of their work, while validators are also compensated for their involvement. The subnets can also communicate with one another to address multi-step tasks. They achieve this using a Mixture of Experts (MoE) model, where each subnet contributes its specialised expertise to solve complex problems.

What Makes Bittensor (TAO) Unique?

Bittensor is uniquely positioned to make AI applications, typically reserved for large corporations with significant resources, accessible to everyone. By decentralising AI development, Bittensor empowers individuals with greater control and transparency over AI technologies. 

The platform offers opportunities for anyone with computing resources to participate as miners, while holders of the TAO token can contribute as validators. This inclusivity positions Bittensor as an innovative AI platform, especially as the demand for computing power in AI continues to rise. 

Unlike the traditional centralised control over AI development, which is dominated by a few major companies, Bittensor leverages blockchain technology to create an open-source, community-driven ecosystem that fosters greater accessibility. Developers are actively contributing to new features, with plans for the subnet system to double in size, opening the door for new applications and fresh innovations. 

Through its tokenisation, decentralisation, and consensus mechanism, Bittensor offers a scalable, fully open-source platform that democratises AI, presenting a compelling alternative to the centralised AI industry. As more developers join the network, Bittensor is poised to disrupt traditional AI models and expand opportunities for AI development on a global scale.