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Exclusive: Anndy Lian: “Web3 and AI Are Transforming NFTs” — Keynote Speech

Exclusive: Anndy Lian: “Web3 and AI Are Transforming NFTs” — Keynote Speech

I was honored to be invited as a keynote speaker at the NFT 2023 Seoul conference, which took place on September 1, 2023, at the COEX Convention Center in Seoul, South Korea. The conference was a huge success, attracting many attendees from around the world who were interested in the latest developments and trends in the non-fungible tokens space.

The speech was titled “The Journey of NFTs in the Age of AI and Web3”. In it, I shared my insights on how NFTs have evolved and what their future holds, how artificial intelligence (AI) is creating new possibilities and challenges for NFTs, and how Web3 is emerging as a new version of the internet that is more decentralized, open, and user-centric.

In this article, I will summarize some of my speech’s key points and provide examples of NFT projects that illustrate them. I hope you will find them informative and inspiring.

What Are NFTs?

One of the topics that I covered in my speech was the basic concept and definition of NFTs. NFTs are non-fungible tokens, which means that they are unique and irreplaceable. Unlike fungible tokens, such as cryptocurrencies, that can be exchanged for one another, NFTs have their own individual characteristics and value. They are mostly digital items, such as artworks, music, videos, games, collectibles, and even virtual land, that users can buy and sell online using blockchain technology.

Blockchain technology is the backbone of NFTs, providing a secure and transparent way of verifying their authenticity, scarcity, and ownership. Blockchain is a distributed ledger system that records transactions in a network of computers without the need for a central authority. Each transaction is verified by the network and added to a chain of blocks that cannot be altered or tampered with. This ensures that NFTs are original, rare, and belong to their rightful owners.

The NFT market has been booming in recent years, especially in 2021, when it reached new heights of popularity and profitability. According to data from NonFungible.com, the total sales volume of NFTs in 2021 was over $12 billion, which is more than 20 times higher than the previous year. The average price of an NFT also increased significantly, from $142 in 2020 to $3,700 in 2021.

Some of the more popular and best-selling NFT collections in the market as of last week were:

  • Bored Ape Yacht Club: 7-Day Sales Volume: $52.2 million
  • The Sandbox: 7-Day Sales Volume: $33.1 million
  • CryptoPunks: 7-Day Sales Volume: $17.5 million
  • Art Blocks: 7-Day Sales Volume: $13.2 million
  • Decentraland: 7-Day Sales Volume: $6.6 million

These collections feature different types of digital assets, such as pixelated characters, generative art, virtual worlds, and more. They have attracted thousands of buyers and sellers from around the world, who are willing to pay millions of dollars for some of the rarest and most coveted pieces. Just to put some figures to illustrate these NFTs. A Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT sold for $24.4 million at Sotheby’s auction house in September 2021.

A CryptoPunk NFT sold for $11.8 million at Christie’s auction house in May 2021. An Art Blocks NFT sold for $5.4 million on the OpenSea platform in August 2021.

How is AI Transforming NFTs?

Another topic I covered in my speech was the impact and potential of artificial intelligence on NFTs. I explained how AI is transforming NFTs by creating new possibilities for generating unique digital assets that can appeal to different tastes and preferences. I also explained how AI can integrate dynamic experiences into NFTs, making them more interactive and adaptive.

One of the ways that AI is creating new possibilities for NFTs is by enabling users to automatically create artworks using various algorithms and models. This means that users do not need to have any artistic skills or experience to create their own NFTs. They can simply use AI tools and platforms that can generate images based on their inputs, such as keywords, styles, colors, and more. Some of the examples of AI-generated NFTs include:

  • Artbreeder is a platform that allows users to create and breed images using neural networks. Users can choose from different categories, such as portraits, landscapes, animals, and abstract art, and then adjust various parameters, such as genes, mutations, and mixtures, to create unique images. Users can also combine different images to create hybrids and variations.
  • GANksy is a collection of street art created by a generative adversarial network (GAN) inspired by Banksy. A GAN is an AI model consisting of two competing networks: a generator that creates fake images and a discriminator that tries to distinguish them from real ones. The generator learns from the feedback of the discriminator and improves over time. GANksy is a GAN that was trained on hundreds of Banksy artworks and then generated its own original pieces.
  • Alethea AI is a platform that enables users to create and trade intelligent NFTs that can speak, interact, and learn. Users can upload their own images or choose from a gallery of pre-made avatars and then use a text-to-speech engine to give them a voice. Users can also customize the personality, mood, and emotion of their NFTs and teach them new skills and knowledge.

Another way that AI is transforming NFTs is by integrating dynamic experiences into them thanks to their self-learning capabilities. This means that NFTs can change over time based on external factors, such as data, events, user actions, and more. This makes them more dynamic compared to more traditional NFTs that often take the form of an image or audio file.

What is Web3 and How Does It Enhance the NFT Ecosystem?

The final topic that I covered in my speech was Web3 and how it enhances the NFT ecosystem. Web3 is a new version of the internet that aims to give users more control over their data and online interactions. Web3 is built on blockchain technology and includes features such as cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).

Identity is one of the key features of Web3 that allows users to manage their online identities in a more secure and efficient way without relying on a central authority. Web3 identity solutions enable users to create and use digital wallets on the blockchain that store their personal information, such as name, email, phone number, address, and more.

Users can then use these wallets to access various Web3 applications and services, such as marketplaces, social networks, games, and more. Users can also choose what information they want to share with each application or service and revoke access at any time. Some of the examples of Web3 identity solutions:

  • MetaMask is a browser extension that allows users to access Ethereum-based applications. MetaMask acts as a bridge between the user’s browser and the Ethereum network, enabling them to send and receive transactions, interact with smart contracts, and manage their Ethereum accounts.
  • Civic is a platform that provides identity verification services using blockchain. Civic allows users to verify their identity once and then use it across multiple platforms without going through the same process again. Civic also protects users’ privacy by using zero-knowledge proofs, which are cryptographic techniques that allow users to prove something without revealing any details.
  • ENS (Ethereum Name Service) is a protocol that allows users to register human-readable names for their Ethereum addresses. ENS makes it easier for users to send and receive transactions, as they do not have to deal with long and complex alphanumeric strings. ENS also allows users to attach other information to their names, such as websites, social media profiles, and NFTs.

NFTs are another key feature of Web3 that enhances the ecosystem by offering a decentralized internet where users are not just consumers but active participants. They are unique blockchain tokens that allow users to transparently provide proof of ownership for things such as digital art, music, data, in-game assets, personal records, and more. NFTs also enable users to create, trade, collect, and showcase their digital assets on various Web3 platforms and services.

The Bottom Line

I wrapped up my speech by stressing the importance and potential of the fusion of AI and NFTs in the Web3 era, arguing that the convergence of AI and NFTs will allow us to create and own unique digital assets that can interact with each other and with the environment in dynamic and intelligent ways.

I also argued that Web3 will offer us a more democratic and decentralized internet where we can have more freedom and control over our online identities and experiences.

“Web3 is based on the idea of decentralization, which means that no single entity or authority can control or censor the network. This aligns perfectly with the core values of NFTs, which are based on the idea of ownership, which means that we can prove and transfer our rights to our digital assets. The fusion of AI and NFTs within the context of Web3 opens up a new horizon for innovation and creativity, where we can explore endless possibilities and have greater agency over our digital assets.”

Thank you to the audience for their attention and to the organizers of NFT 2023 Seoul. Find me on X/Twitter at @anndylian.

 

Source: https://www.techopedia.com/anndy-lians-keynote-speech-at-nft-2023-seoul

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
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Web3 Creator Summit Expert Keynote: Crypto Trends of 2024 by Anndy Lian

Web3 Creator Summit Expert Keynote: Crypto Trends of 2024 by Anndy Lian

As we look into the future of the crypto industry, it’s essential to anticipate the trends and developments that will shape the landscape in 2024. I discussed the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), the significance of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC), the advancement of the crypto travel rule, and the shift towards decentralized governance, among other topics. Let’s explore these predictions further:

Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Everyday Life

I believe that AI will continue to disrupt various sectors and seamlessly integrate into our daily lives. Its impact is expected to be profound, reshaping industries and revolutionizing the way we interact and conduct business.

CBDC: A Game-Changer for the Crypto Industry

I place great emphasis on the significance of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) as a pivotal element in tracking, tracing, and taxing financial transactions. The introduction of CBDCs holds the potential to drive the widespread adoption of digital assets and revolutionize the crypto industry as a whole. The enhanced transparency and accountability provided by CBDCs have the capacity to reshape our perception of and engagement with cryptocurrencies.

Crypto Travel Rule: Advancing Traceability and Taxation

The imminent advancement of the crypto travel rule aims to elevate traceability and taxation within the crypto space. By implementing stricter regulations, authorities can ensure that transactions are closely monitored, leading to a more secure and transparent ecosystem for all participants.

Layer 2: The Growing Influence of Bitcoin and Ethereum

I highlight the continued growth of Bitcoin and Ethereum, the two leading cryptocurrencies. Additionally, the rise of BRC20 tokens and the development of zero-knowledge proofs (ZK) are expected to contribute to the expansion of Layer 2 solutions. These advancements promise to enhance scalability, security, and efficiency within blockchain networks, fostering an environment conducive to widespread adoption.

Next Level NFT: Adoption and Brand Recognition

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have experienced increased adoption, thanks to the support and endorsement of major brands. Although the sales volume of NFTs has not seen significant growth, their relevance and influence continue to expand. NFTs provide unique digital assets that hold intrinsic value and can be securely traded on blockchain platforms, revolutionizing the concept of ownership and collectibles.

Web4: A Decentralized and Autonomous Web

The emergence of Web4 signifies a paradigm shift towards a more decentralized and autonomous web. Internet natives are actively participating in building decentralized narratives and fostering a more inclusive online environment. This transition aims to empower individuals and ensure that digital spaces remain democratic and accessible to all, free from the control of centralized entities.

Security Tokens: Advancing Crypto’s Potential

Security tokens play a vital role in unlocking the full potential of the crypto market. By tokenizing traditional financial assets such as stocks and bonds, the adoption of security tokens has the potential to revolutionize traditional markets and attract a broader investor base to the world of crypto. This democratization of access to financial assets promises to reshape the investment landscape.

Commodity Trading with Crypto: Expanding Possibilities

The integration of cryptocurrencies into commodity trading markets opens up exciting new possibilities for investors. From oil to gold, crypto enables individuals to seamlessly trade popular commodities, providing greater flexibility and choice while reducing traditional barriers to entry.

Mainstream Adoption: Defi and Financial Institutions

Decentralized finance (Defi) is gaining traction among mainstream financial companies. Banks, their clients, and family offices are increasingly allocating a significant portion of their assets to crypto. This mainstream acceptance further solidifies the legitimacy and potential of Defi as an integral part of the financial ecosystem, encouraging wider adoption and collaboration.

In conclusion, these predictions offer valuable insights into the future of various industries. Embracing the disruptions brought about by artificial intelligence, CBDCs, decentralized governance, and other emerging trends will be essential for individuals and businesses to thrive in an ever-changing world. By leveraging these transformative forces, we can unlock new opportunities, reshape traditional models, and shape a future that is both innovative and inclusive.

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j

Anndy Lian’s Keynote Speech at TMRW Conference Dubai: Web4, A New Way to Decentralise

Anndy Lian’s Keynote Speech at TMRW Conference Dubai: Web4, A New Way to Decentralise

Decentralised cryptocurrency, a digital currency that operates independently of a central bank or authority, is a concept that has revolutionized the financial world. Transactions are recorded on a public digital ledger, such as a blockchain, and verified by a network of users rather than a single centralized institution. This innovative and decentralised structure allows for increased transparency, security, and autonomy in financial transactions.

But decentralisation is not limited to just cryptocurrency. When we talk about decentralisation, the term web3 often comes up. Web3, also known as the decentralised web or “Web3.0,” is a visionary concept for the future of the internet in which power and control are distributed among users rather than concentrated in a small group of companies or organizations.

The central concept of web3 is decentralisation, which aims to allow users to control their own data and identity, as well as giving them more control over the apps and services they use. It is also thought to have the potential to create new business models and economic opportunities.

Jack Dorsey, co-founder and former CEO of Twitter, Inc., mentioned that web3 is not necessarily decentralised, and I completely agree with his comments. The reality is that the concept of decentralisation is complex and nuanced, and we must continue to explore its potential and limitations in the context of the evolving digital landscape.

We need something more decentralised. My suggestion to this is “Web4”. Web4, or what some refer to as the second generation of the decentralized web, envisions a future internet where power and control are spread across users instead of a select few companies or organizations. Rather than relying on centralized servers and data storage, web4 would utilize cutting-edge decentralized technologies such as blockchain and peer-to-peer networks to create an internet that’s more transparent, secure, and open. With this, users can enjoy greater data privacy, censorship resistance, and ownership of digital assets.

At the heart of web4 is decentralization, which empowers users to manage their data and identity while providing more control over their apps and services. The potential for web4 goes beyond mere convenience and opens doors to new business models and economic opportunities. Furthermore, web4 is intertwined with the burgeoning field of AI, which can complement its decentralized nature in various ways. Think decentralized AI, Federated Learning, Privacy-Preserving AI, Blockchain-based AI, and AI-driven scalability. The possibilities are endless!

Artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially play a crucial role in realizing this vision. Here are some tantalizing possibilities of how Web4 and AI could interact: First up, decentralized AI. Web4 aims to decentralize control on the internet, and that could be applied to AI as well. Decentralized AI systems would enable more distributed decision-making and prevent a single entity from having too much power over AI systems. Talk about leveling the playing field!

Then there’s Federated Learning. Web4 is all about making different technologies and platforms work together seamlessly. Federated learning, a technique where multiple devices, like smartphones, work together to train a shared AI model, could be a perfect fit for Web4. Who knew that smartphones could be such a powerful force for good?

And let’s not forget about Privacy-Preserving AI. Web4 is all about providing users with increased security and privacy. Privacy-preserving AI, which protects users’ data privacy while still allowing for useful AI models to be trained, is the perfect solution to achieve this goal.

Last but not least, we have AI-driven scalability. Web4 aims to handle more data and users by using blockchain technology and sharding concepts, which allows for faster processing of transactions. Deep learning techniques can also be used to optimize the scalability of the network. It’s all about being able to handle more, faster.

As you can see, the potential for Web4 and AI to work together is truly mind-boggling. We can’t wait to see what the future holds!

“I believe in decentralisation. Web4 could be the next big movement.” – Anndy Lian

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j