The Akash Network is set to undergo significant enhancements over the next few years, including support for full virtual machines and a new provider onboarding framework to boost network growth. Upcoming features like a Managed Wallet API and the Akash at Home initiative aim to improve user accessibility and expand compute capabilities. Additionally, plans for confidential computing will enhance security, while a migration from the current Cosmos SDK-based chain is intended to increase security and community engagement.
Major Developments on the Horizon for the Akash Network
As the demand for decentralized cloud services surges, the Akash Network is positioning itself to become a leading player through a series of ambitious developments slated for the next few years. With a focus on enhancing functionality and user experience, these updates promise to elevate the network's capability and usability significantly.
Virtual Machine Support (Q1 2026)
Akash Network is set to broaden its application scope by enabling support for full virtual machines. This move allows developers to run unmodified enterprise software and custom operating systems. By facilitating the use of existing applications, Akash aims to cater to diverse use cases, particularly in:
- AI model training
- Legacy application migration
This development not only expands potential user engagement but also addresses the evolving requirements of businesses looking for flexible cloud solutions.
Provider Onboarding Framework (February 18, 2025)
To bolster its ecosystem of hardware providers, Akash is introducing the Provider Onboarding Framework (AEP-32). This initiative focuses on automating the setup process for new providers. The primary goals include:
- Streamlining the onboarding experience
- Targeting the addition of over 100 new providers
With this framework, Akash aims to significantly boost its network growth while increasing the demand for AKT, the native token, through enhanced compute supply.
Managed Wallet API (May 28, 2025)
AEP-63 will unveil a Managed Wallet API, designed to simplify resource management for users. By enabling automated deployment scaling based on real-time demand, this feature aims to:
- Minimize friction for non-technical users
- Enhance accessibility to cloud resources
This innovation is particularly valuable for businesses looking to adapt quickly to fluctuating workloads without the need for deep technical expertise.
Akash at Home Initiative (December 31, 2025)
The Akash at Home Initiative (AEP-60) is a groundbreaking plan that allows lightweight devices, such as home PCs, to contribute to the Akash Network. This decentralized edge computing model is particularly well-suited for:
- AI inference tasks
- IoT workloads
By enabling everyday devices to function as providers, Akash can dramatically increase its network reach and utility, ultimately creating a more granular and distributed cloud ecosystem.
Confidential Computing (Q1 2026)
Privacy concerns are at the forefront of many enterprises’ cloud strategies, and Akash is responding by introducing Confidential Computing with the implementation of Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs). This feature allows users to process sensitive data while securing inputs and outputs, thereby:
- Enhancing data privacy
- Mitigating the risk of data exposure during processing
This capability is particularly pertinent for industries that handle sensitive information, such as finance and healthcare.
Migration from Cosmos SDK Chain
In addition to these developments, Akash is preparing for a significant migration away from its current Cosmos SDK-based chain. The objective is to enhance:
- Security
- Liquidity
- Community engagement
The Akash team is evaluating various options for this migration, both within and outside the Cosmos ecosystem. This strategic move highlights Akash's commitment to adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
As we look ahead, Akash Network’s roadmap is filled with promising advancements that suggest it will not only enhance its decentralized cloud infrastructure but also improve overall user experience. These initiatives reflect a focused effort to meet the increasing demand for AI and cloud computing services—a move that could fundamentally reshape how businesses leverage decentralized technologies in the coming years.