The project 0G has launched Ascend, a liquid staking product that enables eligible users to convert staked 0G tokens into credits for AI computing services. Ascend issues a0G tokens when users stake 0G, and these tokens can be used in compatible decentralized finance applications while the original 0G remains locked. The system is part of a broader initiative called Compute Finance, which aims to link digital assets with usable AI compute resources.

Eligible staked iAI tokens are designed to generate compute credits that are valued at more than $1 per day, though the exact amounts, eligibility criteria, and permitted uses will be defined by final product terms. These credits are not redeemable for cash or guaranteed financial returns; they can only be spent on approved AI services within the 0G ecosystem. One supported service is Private Computer, a platform offering private and verifiable AI access with over 130 models at launch. Credits will also be usable on the 0G App, a development environment for interacting with AI models and building applications.

The full workflow consists of five steps: stake 0G, receive a0G, mint iAI, stake iAI, and collect compute credits. At launch, a0G will be the only asset accepted for minting iAI, making Ascend the required entry point. Minting iAI locks the underlying collateral, and burning the asset provides a mechanism to unlock it, subject to the final terms.

Michael Heinrich, co-founder and CEO of 0G, described Compute Finance as a new model that connects digital assets with access to AI compute. He noted that earlier innovations such as equity dividends, proof of work rewards, and decentralized finance expanded the utility of digital assets, and that this system extends that evolution by treating compute access as an output generated by a digital asset position.

Ascend provides liquidity by issuing a0G against deposited 0G, allowing users to keep their staked position active in decentralized finance while participating in the compute credit system. The liquid staking token can be used across compatible DeFi protocols, though the specific platforms that will support a0G have not been disclosed. Risks associated with DeFi use differ from standard native staking and depend on the chosen protocols, smart contracts, and liquidity pools.

Infinite AI, a second product, is scheduled to launch on September 29. It will introduce an iAI asset that links liquid staking positions to compute credits accepted by selected services in the 0G ecosystem. Access to Infinite AI will also be available through Comfy.fun, 0G’s launchpad for agents and tokens, though availability will depend on final terms.

The company has not assigned a cash value to the compute credits and has not indicated any guaranteed financial returns. Their use is limited to eligible AI services, and their treatment for regulatory or tax purposes in the United States will depend on final product terms. Eligibility rules for US users will be defined in forthcoming documentation.

0G operates an AI-focused EVM-compatible layer-1 network that includes encrypted storage, private computing tools, and model verification systems. The initiative builds on prior work linking blockchain infrastructure with AI, including efforts to record machine decisions and permissions onchain without running AI models directly on the blockchain.

Additional details regarding minting requirements, staking eligibility, and supported services are expected in future releases.