The year 2024 has witnessed a remarkable surge in the demand for generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, significantly impacting the realm of AI computing. This increase in usage spans various applications, from simple query responses to extensive work tasks, marking AI's growing integration into daily life. One of the most prominent examples is OpenAI's ChatGPT, which, as of January 2024, boasts approximately 180.5 million monthly users.
This escalating demand has brought to the forefront the critical need for substantial computing power to support these AI technologies. Doug Petkanics, co-founder and CEO of Livepeer, in an interview with Cointelegraph, discussed this burgeoning requirement and potential strategies to manage it. He emphasized that substantial computing power is needed in three main stages of AI lifecycle: training, fine-tuning, and inference.
One of the pressing concerns is balancing the need for faster responses with the economic realities of high costs. For instance, OpenAI's daily operating expenses are estimated at around $700,000, highlighting the immense cost of computing. A shortage of suitable GPUs for AI computing further exacerbates this situation. However, Petkanics pointed out the pivotal role of crypto-coordinated DePIN networks, which are already equipped with GPUs capable of handling tasks like video transcoding and 3D rendering, making them well-suited for AI.
Moreover, Petkanics highlighted a disconnect between consumers and the underlying infrastructure of AI computing. Users typically prioritize speed and relevance over the energy, usage, or computing cost of the AI prompts they engage with. He warned that issues with computing power might become more apparent to consumers if costs are passed on through increased ads, decreased response quality, or higher subscription fees.
Addressing broader implications, Petkanics expressed concerns about the monopolization of scaled AI platforms by a handful of big tech companies. These entities own large proprietary data sets and have invested billions in training models. He stressed the importance of the open-source AI movement to ensure accessibility and mitigate centralization risks.
The ongoing AI boom heralds a new set of economic, environmental, and social considerations. As the industry evolves, experts like Petkanics are at the forefront, shaping the future of this rapidly advancing field.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is based on the referenced research articles. It is essential to conduct further research and analysis before making any investment decisions. The cryptocurrency market is highly volatile, and investors should exercise caution and consult with financial professionals before engaging in cryptocurrency trading or investment activities.
