In an ambitious leap towards integrating artificial intelligence with tangible reality, IoTeX has unveiled its Real-World AI Foundry at the prestigious Token2049 event in Singapore. This initiative is not just a technological endeavor; it represents a collaborative effort to redefine how AI learns and interacts with the world, with the backing of significant partners like Vodafone, Filecoin, and Theta Network. Let’s delve into what makes this launch a potential game-changer for AI and the broader tech ecosystem.
A New Era for AI Development
The Real-World AI Foundry is set to transform AI by replacing traditional, static training models with what IoTeX calls Real-World Models (RWMs). These RWMs are designed to learn and adapt continuously from real-world data, offering a dynamic and responsive intelligence that static models simply can’t match. By leveraging the vast amounts of data generated every day, AI can become more intuitive and applicable to real-world situations.
For instance, consider a self-driving car navigating city streets. Traditional AI models rely on pre-programmed scenarios, but with RWMs, the car can learn from live data about traffic conditions, weather changes, and pedestrian behavior, adapting in real-time to ensure safety and efficiency. This shift towards real-time learning is poised to enhance AI’s applicability across industries, from autonomous vehicles to smart cities and beyond.
A Collaborative Approach
IoTeX’s Real-World AI Foundry is notable not just for its technological innovation but also for its collaborative framework. By bringing together industry leaders like Vodafone, Filecoin, and Theta Network, IoTeX is fostering a multi-stakeholder approach to AI development. This open collaboration contrasts starkly with the often closed and proprietary systems of Big Tech, potentially democratizing AI innovation and making advanced AI capabilities more accessible to a broader range of developers and businesses.
Vodafone’s involvement, for example, highlights the potential for integrating AI with telecommunications to enhance network efficiency and customer experience. Meanwhile, Filecoin’s decentralized storage solutions could provide the necessary infrastructure for managing the vast amounts of data required for RWMs. Theta Network, known for its decentralized video delivery, could offer insights into optimizing AI-driven content distribution.
Challenges Ahead
While the prospects are exciting, the Real-World AI Foundry faces significant challenges, particularly concerning governance and accountability. The open, multi-stakeholder approach, while innovative, raises questions about how decisions will be made and who will be responsible for outcomes. In a field as sensitive as AI, ensuring that the technology is used ethically and transparently is crucial.
Moreover, the reliance on real-world data introduces privacy concerns. As AI becomes more integrated with daily life, safeguarding personal information while utilizing data for training becomes a balancing act. IoTeX and its partners will need to establish robust governance frameworks that address these ethical and privacy considerations, ensuring that the benefits of this new AI paradigm do not come at the cost of user trust.
Balancing Optimism with Caution
The launch of the Real-World AI Foundry is a bold step towards a future where AI and real-world data coexist seamlessly. However, as with any groundbreaking technology, it’s essential to proceed with both enthusiasm and caution. The potential for RWMs to revolutionize industries is immense, but so too are the responsibilities that come with it.
Industry experts are optimistic yet cautious. While many agree that IoTeX’s initiative could usher in a new era of AI innovation, they also stress the importance of establishing clear ethical guidelines and robust governance structures. As the foundry progresses, its ability to navigate these challenges will determine its long-term success and impact on the AI landscape.
Looking Ahead
As IoTeX continues to develop its Real-World AI Foundry, the tech world will be watching closely. The initiative’s success could redefine how AI is developed and deployed, shifting the focus from theoretical models to practical, real-world applications. By promoting an open and collaborative approach, IoTeX is not just challenging the status quo; it’s inviting the industry to envision a future where AI is more adaptable, accessible, and aligned with real-world needs.
In the coming months, as RWMs begin to take shape and IoTeX’s partners contribute their expertise, the potential for innovation is vast. Whether it’s enhancing smart city infrastructures, improving healthcare outcomes, or revolutionizing entertainment, the possibilities are limited only by the collective imagination and collaboration of those involved.
In this rapidly evolving landscape, one thing is clear: the Real-World AI Foundry is poised to make waves, bridging the gap between intelligence and reality in ways we’re just beginning to understand. As it unfolds, the world will be watching, eager to see how this ambitious endeavor will redefine our interaction with the digital world.

Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.