Eric Winer, CTO of NEAR AI, discusses the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology, emphasizing the potential of AI agents to drive crypto adoption. With over a decade of experience in the crypto space, Winer envisions a future where AI agents actively negotiate and transact on behalf of users, enhancing efficiency and user sovereignty. He highlights NEAR AI's mission to create a decentralized ecosystem of AI agents that communicate seamlessly, thereby ensuring users retain control over their data and decision-making. NEAR AI differs from other crypto-focused AI projects, as it integrates AI with a primary focus on user-owned systems rather than merely combining both technologies. Winer describes NEAR AI as an agent hosting platform that facilitates easy deployment of AI agents, prioritizing user data protection through Trusted Execution Environments. He foresees a financial landscape shaped by AI interactions, where decentralized payment systems are rationally chosen by AI agents. This approach positions AI as a catalyst for blockchain adoption, rather than the other way around, suggesting a future dominated by AI assistants facilitating online interactions.

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