At the recent “Build and Scale in 2026” forum in Hong Kong, Art Abal, Managing Director of the Wana Foundation, highlighted the pivotal role of data in the advancement of artificial intelligence. He emphasized that in today’s era, where AI is fundamentally based on data, the true essence of data lies in its “context.” Abal explained how decentralized technology can empower users by restoring their data sovereignty and unlocking its economic value. He pointed out the current issue of data monopolization within the AI ecosystem, where most users rely on a single generic AI assistant while other major models see limited use, making data and context central to control. Additionally, large tech companies have restricted API access, discontinued free services, and begun charging users, leading to a loss of user control over their data and its value. In response, the Wana Foundation proposed a comprehensive solution that includes developing tools to enable users to own their data, establishing protocols for cross-platform data portability, and creating an ecosystem comprising applications, data DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations), and services to unlock the deeper value of data. Abal stated that in the AI era, data equates to context, and context is the key to differentiation. Wana aims to return full control of data, context, and economic value to every user through decentralized protocols and ecosystems, fostering a more open and equitable data value internet. Given the growing importance of AI and the central role of data, these initiatives could herald a new era in data control and ownership, strengthening user rights and promoting more transparent and fair data usage.
Source: binance
