01-31, 15:25–15:45 (Europe/Zurich), Sepolia Stage
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs) integrate blockchain technology with real-world infrastructure, enabling decentralized systems for applications such as storage, computing, and IoT. By incentivizing resource contributions from users, DePINs create scalable networks that address practical needs while reducing costs at a significant level. With a market capitalization exceeding $29 billion and poised to reach $3.5 trillion by 2028, the sector is expanding through projects like Arweave for decentralized storage and peaq for IoT applications. As DePINs evolve, they hold potential to bridge Web3 technology with mainstream use by addressing everyday needs like energy grids and autonomous networks. In this talk, we will cover the essentials of DePIN - the idea of DePIN, examples of its real-world applications, key players in the space as well as future outlook.
Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs) combine blockchain technology with real-world infrastructure to provide decentralized systems for applications such as storage, computing, and IoT. These networks incentivize resource contributions such as idle computing power, storage and telecommunication connection from individuals and businesses with network tokens. This approach is increasingly relevant as demand grows for cost-effective infrastructure to support emerging technologies.
The DePIN sector has seen consistent growth, achieving a multi-billion-dollar market capitalization and projections suggesting significant future potential. Key projects like Arweave and recently peaq Network focus on decentralized storage and IoT, respectively. These developments also catch the audience outside of the Web3 industry, with Forbes having multiple articles covering DePIN industry and user behaviors.
Projects such as peaq play a significant role in this landscape, offering decentralized infrastructure for the Economy of Things, including autonomous and connected devices. Incubated by Advanced Blockchain, a key investor supporting DePIN infrastructure, peaq has already brought over 3 million IoT devices to the network, democratizing the participation of the IoT industry.
As DePINs evolve, they present an opportunity to introduce blockchain technology to broader audiences by addressing everyday needs through decentralized solutions. Applications like autonomous vehicle networks or energy grids could demonstrate the practical value of Web3 technologies to consumers and businesses. While challenges remain, DePINs offer a pathway for integrating blockchain into infrastructure in ways that could complement existing systems and provide new efficiencies over time.
Chuanshan is a Research Analyst from Advanced Blockchain AG, a German VC investing in early stage projects in the Web3 space. He is a meticulous researcher within the blockchain space, investigating various topics through the lens of data. His research focuses on the scalability and interoperability aspects of blockchain, with two publications in these fields. He holds a Master's degree in Data Science from the University of Zürich.
Hatem Elsayed is an angel investor and former ambassador for the Polkadot network. He previously served as a Lead Project Manager at ABAG and now leads the group’s operations as Chief Operating Officer. He holds a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Marketing from Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg.