computing power
The rapid development of the field of artificial intelligence is largely attributed to the significant improvement in computing power, which is the result of multiple factors working together. This progress includes deep exploration and efficient utilization of existing hardware resources, as well as the continuous emergence and iteration of new high-performance hardware specifically designed for artificial intelligence. Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), as a landmark product of this trend, has achieved significant acceleration in neural network training and inference processes by specifically optimizing core computing tasks such as matrix operations in deep learning algorithms, laying a solid computing foundation for the rapid development of artificial intelligence. In addition, the emergence of GPUs from Nvidia, Xeon Phi from Intel, and numerous customized AI chips has further enriched the hardware options for artificial intelligence, meeting the computing power needs in different scenarios.
In this context, projects such as DeepBrain, Akash, and Golem have emerged, focusing on the widely available idle computing resources worldwide. Their aim is to integrate these dispersed and underutilized computing capabilities by building a decentralized computing network, providing more abundant and cost-effective computing support for the research and application of artificial intelligence. Especially DeepBrain, it not only focuses on the integration and allocation of computing power, but also delves into how to intelligently schedule and optimize computing resources based on the specific needs of artificial intelligence tasks to ensure the maximum utilization of computing power. By introducing advanced distributed computing technology and smart contract mechanisms, DeepBrain is gradually building a more open, flexible, and sustainable computing ecosystem.
At the same time, in the field of blockchain, Ethereum, as a leading platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications, has increasingly highlighted its scalability issues, becoming a key factor restricting its further development. In order to solve this problem, projects such as Starkware, zkSync, LoopRing, and Hermes have launched expansion solutions based on zkRollup. These schemes cleverly combine zero knowledge proof technology, allowing for efficient processing of large amounts of transaction data outside of the Ethereum mainnet. Subsequently, these transaction data are aggregated and verified onto the mainnet in a secure and concise manner, greatly improving Ethereum’s transaction throughput and smart contract execution efficiency without sacrificing security.
Although these zkRollup scaling solutions share the same overall goal of enhancing Ethereum’s scalability, they each have their own strengths in implementation paths and application scenarios. For example, Starkware and zkSync not only focus on expanding payments and smart contracts, but also strive to build a more universal scaling framework to support various blockchain applications, including gaming and social media; LoopRing and Hermes, on the other hand, are more focused on expanding payment and token transfer capabilities, providing users with a smoother and more efficient payment experience by optimizing transaction processes, reducing transaction fees, and improving transaction speeds. In addition, these projects are constantly exploring the integration with other blockchain technologies, such as cross chain technology, to further expand the ecological boundaries of Ethereum.
Whether in the field of artificial intelligence or blockchain, technological innovation is the core driving force for their sustainable development. By deeply tapping into the potential of existing resources, developing new hardware, implementing innovative scaling solutions, optimizing algorithms and architectures, and constantly exploring integration with other technologies, these fields are moving towards greater efficiency, scalability, popularity, and intelligence at an unprecedented speed, contributing more and more wisdom and strength to the progress and development of human society.