OpenTensor Foundation Proposed Gamma Tokens
The proposal introduces a new economic layer for AI subnets to facilitate the exchange of compute and inference services.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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The OpenTensor Foundation has introduced a proposal for Gamma tokens, a new economic layer designed to enable subnets to trade compute and inference services. This system aims to transition the network's token from a standard reward asset to an operational currency.
Why it matters
By facilitating the direct trade of AI services, the proposal seeks to shift the underlying token utility from simple network rewards to a functional, operational currency. This change would potentially standardize how subnets monetize compute power within the broader ecosystem.
The proposed system functions by converting a portion of existing network emissions into Gamma credits, which are acquired by burning subnet-specific Alpha tokens. Currently, 24 of the network's over 100 specialized AI markets generate between $28 million and $35 million in annualized revenue.
The players
OpenTensor Foundation
This organization is responsible for the ongoing development and governance of the Bittensor network and its ecosystem.
The details
The proposed framework would allow subnets to trade compute and inference services using Gamma credits backed by subnet emissions. This mechanism is designed to integrate with the existing dynamic TAO framework, which supports the network's diverse AI markets.
Timeline
The dynamic TAO framework was introduced in 2025.
The OpenTensor Foundation introduced the proposal on September 28, 2026.
The Tech Race
The introduction of Gamma tokens marks a strategic evolution for the Bittensor network as it moves beyond simple reward distributions. This shift aligns with broader industry trends toward creating self-sustaining, functional economic layers for decentralized compute marketplaces.
For users and developers participating in subnet markets, the proposal suggests a shift in how they will acquire and trade compute power. Participants should monitor future updates to see how the burning of Alpha tokens and acquisition of Gamma credits may alter their operational costs.
The takeaway
This conceptual proposal highlights a broader industry movement toward turning native protocol tokens into practical operational currencies for AI services. Stakeholders should consider how shifting from reward-based models to service-based transaction models impacts the valuation of subnet-specific assets.
Further reading
Learn more about the infrastructure powering decentralized AI markets in the Artificial Intelligence section.
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