Artificial intelligence is once again changing how crypto works

Smart contracts are now part of smarter ecosystems, and AI tokens are leading the 2025 market talk. But with many projects chasing the same trend

Artificial intelligence is quickly changing the landscape of crypto, with smart contracts now forming part of smarter ecosystems and AI tokens a key part of 2025 market talk. But as many projects are chasing the same trend, which ones offer more than hype?

May has seen three names in particular pull focus in the AI and blockchain world - NEAR Protocol (CRYPTO: NEAR), Bittensor (CRYPTO: TAO), and the fast-moving presale project Unstaked (UNSD).

Each one takes a different path. NEAR is utilizing a large grant program to fund AI integration inside its Layer 1 setup. Bittensor, on the other hand, is focused on a decentralized network that rewards machine learning models for their performance. And Unstaked is building real AI tools for Web3 use through autonomous agents.

Here’s a closer look at how they compare and why Unstaked is garnering attention as a standout pick this month.

NEAR Protocol (CRYPTO:NEAR) - Big Plans, But Still In Building Mode

NEAR Protocol is known for pushing new ideas. It is touted as a strong Layer 1 with useful tools being built for developers. Recently, the network launched a $20 million AI Agent Fund to support the development of AI tools on its ecosystem. This has attracted interest from early-stage builders and VC-backed teams, setting up NEAR as a base layer for the next generation of AI-powered dApps.

The technology underpinning NEAR enables fast speeds, short wait times, and low transaction fees, making it well-suited for the needs of AI. However, its autonomous agent plans are still in the early stages. At present, there are no live tools or on-chain systems like Proof of Intelligence in place.

This contrasts with projects like Unstaked, which are designed to deploy working AI agents after launch and integrate them with a PoI system from the beginning.

Despite this, NEAR remains a reliable Layer 1 with a growing focus on AI. But for those seeking operational tools today, it might be a more long-term investment.

Bittensor (TAO) - Machine Learning That's Rewarded For Performance

Bittensor stands out as one of the most advanced AI projects in crypto. It operates a network where individuals can train machine learning models, with the top models being rewarded with TAO tokens based on their performance. The aim is to create a vast, open AI system where contributions are directly linked to rewards.

The TAO token currently trades at around $340 and has benefited from interest in decentralized computing. Some analysts believe the token could double or triple by the end of 2025 if more companies begin utilizing its technology.

However, Bittenson is not without its complexities. Its primary focus is on machine learning experts and coders rather than the broader crypto community. While it boasts strong technology, it does not offer easily accessible tools or direct Web3 support, which Unstaked plans to provide with its autonomous agents.

Unstaked (UNSD) - Introducing AI Agents Built To Power Web3 Growth

Unstaked is taking a different approach with its use of artificial intelligence. The project is introducing autonomous agents programmed to manage tasks on platforms like Telegram, X, and other decentralized applications. These agents are designed to assist with onboarding new users, posting content, moderating chats, and maintaining user engagement—crucial needs for nearly every cryptocurrency project today.

What distinguishes Unstaked is its Proof of Intelligence (PoI) method. Each task completed by an agent is tracked and evaluated directly on-chain. Only the agents that perform well and contribute positively to the community receive rewards in UNSD tokens. This approach incentivizes productivity, not hype, and helps ensure the quality of work across the system.

While NEAR is backing AI projects and Bittenson is concentrated on model training, Unstaked is moving toward deployable AI in a real-world setting. Its core structure is already developed, and the agents are expected to launch shortly after the token's public listing. This would mark one of the first operational AI setups designed to expand decentralized communities.

Now in Stage 2 of its presale with a token price of $0.006695, Unstaked may also be the most reachable option on the list. If it hits the projected listing price of $0.1819, early buyers could see gains up to 2,700%, assuming demand translates to use. With nearly $1 million raised in less than a week, it seems this project is starting to garner broader attention.

Which AI Project Might Offer The Most Right Now?

When considering long-term systems, both NEAR and Bittenson present compelling cases. NEAR boasts a swift Layer 1 network and an expanding grant