Oblong Stakes $8M on Crypto-Driven AI Future

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Oblong Inc. (NASDAQ: OBLG) has made a decisive move into the world of decentralized artificial intelligence (AI), investing $8 million in Bittensor’s TAO cryptocurrency. The full amount is now staked through a validator on the network, signaling the company’s confidence in the long-term viability of blockchain-powered AI.

This investment represents Oblong’s entry into a growing sector that seeks to shift control of AI development away from large, centralized tech companies. Bittensor (TAO) is a decentralized blockchain protocol built to support AI applications and machine learning models. Its marketplace model allows developers to compete and collaborate in building intelligent systems, all while being rewarded with TAO tokens for their contributions. Staking these tokens not only supports the network but also allows participants to earn yield in return.

Oblong’s CEO, Pete Hols, framed the investment as part of a broader strategy to align investor returns with disruptive innovation. “Our $8 million TAO investment, fully staked for strong returns, shows our commitment to a decentralized AI revolution. Our goal is to build wealth for investors while advancing a global AI community,” Holst said in a company-issued press release.

Beyond the initial purchase, Oblong confirmed it will assess the potential for additional TAO acquisitions every week. The company is also exploring partnerships within the Bittensor ecosystem, which could pave the way for future technology development projects. These partnerships are aimed at positioning Oblong not just as an investor, but as a potential contributor to the decentralized AI movement.

As part of its commitment to transparency, Oblong plans to include detailed updates on staking performance, token holdings, and treasury strategy in its Q2 2025 financial results. This level of disclosure is intended to give investors a clearer view of how the company’s crypto-focused strategy is performing over time.

The company has described its broader goal as building a cryptocurrency treasury focused on decentralized AI, specifically through the acquisition and staking of TAO. While some in the market remain cautious about blockchain investments, others see decentralized AI as a vital counterweight to the increasing concentration of power in the hands of a few global tech firms.

Oblong’s move may prove prescient as interest in decentralized alternatives gains momentum. While time will tell how the investment performs, the company’s willingness to stake a significant amount of capital reflects both confidence and a calculated risk in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information from Oblong Inc. It is not financial advice or a recommendation to invest.