Bittensor is a decentralized open-source network based on the Ethereum blockchain for machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) networks. It connects blockchain technology, machine learning, and AI to create a scalable and incentivized network to change how AI is developed, shared, and monetized. With its peer-to-peer intelligence market model, Bittensor encourages miners to contribute to machine learning training and rewards them with the TAO token. 

TAO is the native token that drives the Bittensor network. Miners and validators in the Bittensor network earn TAO tokens as rewards. TAO token facilitates transactions, enables participation in governance, and rewards stakers.

The primary features of Bittensor (TAO) include: 

• Open source: The Bittensor network’s platform code is open source which promotes transparency and aids collaboration from developers in the crypto community.

• Incentive mechanism: The protocol incentivizes the platform’s participants with TAO tokens for contributing computational resources and participating in governance.

• TAO token: TAO, the native token of the Bittersor network, facilitates transactions within the network.

• Staking: TAO token holders can also stake their TAO tokens and earn rewards.

• Interoperability: The Bittensor blockchain is decentralized and interoperable, allowing different AI models to work together without a centralized authority.

Since its launch in 2021, the TAO token has performed well in the broader crypto market space. As of June, TAO is in the top 48 crypto by market cap. The token has notched up yearly gains of over 500%, making it a formidable crypto in the DeFi space. While the current price of TAO is around $280, experts expect the token to zoom over $600 by 2030, deeming it a promising cryptocurrency.

The TAO token has its utility within and outside the Bittensor ecosystem. 

• TAO can be traded with other cryptocurrencies on crypto exchange platforms like CoinSwitch. 

• TAO token is used to incentivize validators for verifying transactions within the ecosystem.

• TAO is used to facilitate all transactions on the Bittensor network. 

• TAO token holders can also stake their TAO tokens to earn rewards. 

• Like other cryptos, TAO tokens can be bought or sold from a crypto exchange to make a profit. 

• TAO token holders can participate in governance as they can vote on important decisions concerning the network’s development and operation.

• It is a decentralized platform for AI development.

• The network rewards participants for contributing to the network’s governance and maintenance.

• The Bittensor platform is open-source, making it accessible to several participants, and enhancing the network’s intelligence.

• Operating on a decentralized and open-source mechanism, the platform promotes transparency and security. 

• TAO is subject to market volatility.

• The fortunes of the AI industry could impact TAO token price as its primary focus is on AI and machine learning. 

• Despite being in the top 50 cryptos by market cap, TAO is yet to gain popularity among new crypto investors.

• You can invest in TAO by downloading the CoinSwitch app. 

• With CoinSwitch’s easy-to-use and access app, users can manage transactions and portfolios seamlessly. 

• With no upper limit, users can invest in TAO starting with just ₹100.

Bittensor’s TAO was brought to life by Jacob Steeves and Ala Shaabana in 2021 and developed by OpenTensor, a non-profit organization. Bittensor attracted significant investments from investors such as Polychain, a fund management company, which incubated Bittensor in 2019 and holds around $200 million in TAO tokens. Dao5, another investment fund, holds about $50 million in TAO. Digital Currency Group (DCG), founded by Barry Silbert, has invested around $100 million in TAO. The strong investor backing since its inception highlights investor interest in TAO and boosts its growth.