What is Bittensor (TAO)?

Bittensor is a decentralized blockchain network built to facilitate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in an open, scalable, and transparent manner. Unlike traditional AI infrastructures, which are typically controlled by centralized organizations, Bittensor democratizes AI by enabling decentralized contributions from participants globally​. Bittensor’s innovative approach allows users to train and contribute machine learning models, offering computational resources and AI insights to the network. Contributors, referred to as neurons, are rewarded with TAO tokens based on the value and utility of their contributions. This creates an incentive-driven ecosystem where participants are motivated to provide high-quality AI models and data.

The core of Bittensor is its subnets, which function as distinct layers within the network, each focusing on specific AI tasks. For instance, one subnet may specialize in image recognition, while another might focus on natural language processing or speech transcription​. The decentralized nature of these subnets allows for continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation within the network.

Source: https://bittensor.org/

Bittensor operates on the Subtensor blockchain, a substrate-based blockchain that underpins all activity on the network. This blockchain manages consensus, transactions, and the reward system, ensuring that each contribution is recorded immutably and that rewards are distributed fairly according to the Yuma Consensus Mechanism​. This structure also prevents cheating or low-effort contributions, as the network rewards only valuable and high-quality inputs.