Author: Sam Ruskin, Messari Research Analyst; Compiled by: 0xjs@金财经
DeFi has brought millions of unique addresses to the chain over the years, but is now facing an identity crisis. Cross-chain fragmentation, liquidity issues, and a lack of new users pose problems for DeFi applications. But all that might change is a new letter and a front-end revamp.
DeFAI (DeFix AI) aims to address these challenges by integrating AI to streamline processes and improve user experience. This field uses AI tools such as natural language interfaces, autonomous agents, and data aggregation to make on-chain interactions feel seamless and intuitive. For example, instead of manually navigating the dApp, users can issue commands such as “Exchange 3 ETH for USDC,” “Bridge asset to another chain,” or “Write a new ETH-USDC liquidity pool for me.” contract". AI handles back-end complexities, including locating smart contracts, minimizing gas fees, and executing transactions securely.
Who are the main players in DeFAI? GriffinGriffain features personal and pre-built “ad hoc agents” used to perform AI-driven token swaps, gain token insights, and manage liquidity supply. Users can set up wallets for their agents to perform interactions based on human instructions. Built on Solana, the platform leverages the network's high throughput and low latency to support fast execution. The protocol recently launched the AI Agent Playground for testing and optimizing agent strategies. Access to Griffain is by invitation only, requiring an Early Access Pass and 2 SOL to join.
HeyAnonHeyAnon provides natural language trading tools, cross-chain token bridging through LayerZero, and integration with protocols such as Aave for lending and staking. It supports automated workflows triggered by price data, gas fees or schedules, and optimizes token swaps through a multi-DEX aggregator (similar to Jupiter). Through data monitoring across sources like GitHub and Twitter, HeyAnon can provide actionable insights and simplify DeFi operations. It is based on Sonic EVM (formerly known as Fantom) and benefits from its high throughput and low latency. HeyAnon has announced that their public beta will launch at the end of January.
NeurNeur aims to be Solana’s AI copilot of choice. Neur’s features include natural language understanding tailored for DeFi and NFTs, advanced function calls for complex blockchain operations, integrated wallet management with real-time portfolio insights, and integration with leading Solana protocols such as Jupiter and Magic Eden). Neur utilizes Claude 3.5-Sonnet and GPT-4 to implement its AI capabilities. Users praise the platform for its smooth user experience and simple user interface. Access to Neur is by invitation only, and 1 SOL is required to join.
As DeFAI develops, what should you pay attention to?Given the number of new projects in this space, users should look for live products with available tools. There is currently little product differentiation, and the AI field is rapidly becoming saturated. Look for projects with solid technical moats and rapid delivery.