In the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency, Eric Winer, the Chief Technology Officer at NEAR, has spent the past decade focusing on integrating innovative technologies with user needs. Currently, he envisions a future where AI agents handle negotiations and transactions on behalf of users, potentially transforming how we engage with digital platforms.

Having previously worked with the Winklevoss twins at Gemini, where he was the first engineer, Winer now faces a significant challenge: developing a decentralized platform of AI agents committed to maintaining consumer sovereignty amid an AI-driven world.

A Shift to AI

Winer elaborates on his journey into cryptocurrency, where he chose to merge blockchain technology with mainstream application in 2013. He highlights that in the early days of crypto, it was crucial to construct systems that appealed not only to tech enthusiasts but also to a broader audience, aiming for practical adoption of blockchain.

The NFT Experience

Winer’s foray into the NFT scene through the acquisition of Nifty Gateway marked a period of unexpected growth, witnessing exponential sales increases during the pandemic, contrary to the initial skepticism surrounding NFTs.

NEAR AI’s Unique Approach

Unlike most projects merely combining AI with crypto, NEAR AI aims to empower users, allowing them ownership over their data and decisions. This philosophy is central to NEAR’s operations, positioning it as a leading AI platform rather than a crypto-centric entity.

Looking Ahead

The future of NEAR AI involves orchestrating a multitude of AI agents that will streamline operations online, enhancing functionalities like personal assistant features while safeguarding user data through advanced technology such as Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs).

Winer contemplates a world where AI agents will not only engage in transactions but also negotiate, thus incentivizing the adoption of blockchain through AI-assisted processes.

Eric Winer is a contributor at Consensus 2025 and shares insights on the crucial intersection of AI and blockchain technology.